By Ghazali Ibrahim 
Pope Francis, the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, died at the age of 88 following complications from a stroke and heart failure, the Vatican announced.
The pontiff passed away peacefully at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, just one day after leading Easter Mass and delivering blessings to thousands of worshippers in St. Peter’s Square.
According to a statement from the Holy See, Pope Francis suffered a stroke that left him in a coma and ultimately caused irreversible heart failure.
His death follows a prolonged battle with pneumonia and other health complications that had kept him hospitalised for 38 days at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was elected pope in March 2013.
He was the first Jesuit pope, the first pope from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years.
Known for his humility, progressive social teachings, and concern for the poor, he became a globally respected spiritual leader throughout his 12-year papacy.
In line with his personal request for modesty, the Vatican confirmed that the late pope will be given a simple burial.
His remains will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing before his burial scheduled for Wednesday, April 23.
“The funeral rites will reflect the faith of the Church in the Risen Christ, not the worldly power of its leader,” said Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies.
Catholic tradition requires a pope to be buried within four to six days of death. Preparations for the rites are currently underway, with large crowds expected to pay their final respects.
With Pope Francis’ passing, the Church has officially entered the period known as “sede vacante” Latin for “the seat being vacant.”
During this time, all regular functions of the papacy are suspended until a new pope is elected.
The conclave, a secretive gathering of cardinal electors, will convene soon in the Sistine Chapel to select the next Bishop of Rome.
Ten prominent cardinals are seen as possible successors with Ghana-born Cardinal Peter Turkson topping the list.
