FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – Pope Francis has died, the Vatican announced. Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the news in a video statement, confirming the pontiff passed away after a prolonged illness.
“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with great sadness that I must announce the death of our Holy Father, Francis,” Farrell said. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the Father’s house. His entire life was dedicated to serving the Lord and His Church.”
The pope made a brief appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday. On the same day, he also received U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance in a private audience at the Vatican.
Pope Francis was elected in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict. He was the first pope from South America and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. Pope Francis was 88 years old.