The Catholic Church has been thrown into mourning as Pope Francis was declared dead early Monday.
The death of the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church was announced by Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo.
The Pope died at 7:35 am at the age of 88 after suffering various ailments in his 12-year papacy.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home 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 faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for 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 God, One and Tribune,” Ferrel announced.
