ROME — Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church known for championing the rights of immigrants and the poor, died on Monday morning at the age of 88, the Vatican announced.
The announcement was made on Easter Monday by the Vatican, less than 24 hours after he was seen at Easter Service.
“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 His Church,” Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, said on Monday.
Francis’ body will be put on display in an open coffin in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. But per Francis’ wishes, he will be buried at the ancient Basilica of St. Mary Major, which lies outside the Vatican walls.
Francis’ successor will be chosen during a conclave, a gathering of cardinals who are charged with electing a new pope in strict seclusion at the Vatican.
