Pope Francis' cause of death was a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure, the Vatican has revealed.
It was announced earlier today (21 April) that Pope Francis had died at the age of 88 as the world's Catholics plunged into mourning.
"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis," said Cardinal Kevin Farrell. "At 7:35 this morning (local time), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.
"He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised."
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The camerlengo added: "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.”
Also released this evening, the Pope had confirmed in his final testament that he wished to be buried in Rome's Basilica of Saint Mary Major and 'without particular ornamentation'.
Pope Francis begun his final testament with: "As I sense the approaching twilight of my earthly life, and with firm hope in eternal life, I wish to set out my final wishes solely regarding the place of my burial."
And he also requested for his resting place to bear the inscription of his papal name in Latin: Franciscus.
Requesting a 'simple' tomb, and explaining that he has always entrusted himself 'to the Mother of Our Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary', he concluded his testament: "May the Lord grant a fitting reward to all those who have loved me and who continue to pray for me. The suffering that has marked the final part of my life, I offer to the Lord, for peace in the world and for fraternity among peoples."
Pope Francis had chronic lung disease and was admitted to a hospital on 14 February for a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia. He spent 38 days there which was the longest hospitalisation of his 12-year papacy.
The Catholic leader had appeared in public yesterday to share an Easter blessing and a popemobile tour through a cheering crowd in St Peter’s Square.
Known as Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio at the time, he was elected to lead the Catholic Church back in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI stood down.
No date for his funeral has yet been announced and the decision over who will be the next pope (with the process known as the conclave) is yet to begin.
Topics: Pope Francis, World News, Religion
Jess Battison