Urooj Niazi 
pope francis, head of catholic church, passes away day after easter
The Vatican reported on Monday morning the public learned Pope Francis passes away at the age of 88. This happened at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), just one day after the traditional Easter. In official Vatican news reporting, Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
Pope Francis had severe illnesses while receiving medical treatment over the last weeks. Medical staff treated his pneumonia for five weeks, and he was discharged from the hospital on March 23. For the Easter festivities, he was unable to fulfill all his typical responsibilities. On Easter Sunday, Francis made his last public statement to demand religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, together with protection against increasing attacks on Gaza.
During his time as Pope from Latin America, Francis changed established ways of doing things. He selected modest residences instead of the formal Papal apartments and kept up his demanding activities at his advanced age.
The Vatican has not made public its plans for the funeral and the selection of a new pope.
