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Pope Francis Death News Live Updates: Pope Francis Dies At 88 After Battling Severe Pneumonia, The Vatican Confirms
Pope Francis Death News Live Updates: In a deeply sombre announcement, the Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88 after battling a severe case of pneumonia. The pontiff, known for his humility, compassion, and reformist vision, took his last breath at the Apostolic Palace, surrounded by senior clergy and close aides.
"This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father," said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the statement published by the Vatican on its Telegram channel.
On Sunday, Pope Francis called for freedom of thought and tolerance in his Easter Sunday address. After giving his Easter greetings to the crowd, estimated at more than 35,000 people, from the basilica's balcony, Francis delegated the reading of his traditional "Urbi et Orbi" ("To the City and the World") benediction to an associate.
"There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others," read his speech, which also condemned "worrisome" anti-Semitism, and the "dramatic and deplorable" situation in Gaza.
