Pope Francis has died, a senior Vatican official has said.
Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a statement on Monday: “At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”
And an announcement from Salford Diocese said: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of Pope Francis.
“We ask you to remember him and all Mother Church in your prayers.”
The Vatican statement said: “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 faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.
“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 God, One and Tribune.″
Francis, 88, emerged from his convalescence on Easter Sunday to bless the thousands of people in St Peter’s Square in Vatican City.
By Press Association
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