Vatican - Pope Francis passed away in Rome at the age of 88 on Easter Monday, the day after he appeared frail yet smiling before thousands of worshipers gathered in St. Peter's Square in Rome for Easter celebrations.

The head of the Catholic Church had been suffering for over two months from the aftermath of severe pneumonia. He was widely popular among followers of his church worldwide, though he faced strong opposition from some quarters, particularly within the church, due to reforms he advocated or implemented.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell stated in a message published by the Vatican on its Telegram channel: "This morning at 07:35, Bishop of Rome Francis returned to the Father's house. He dedicated his entire life to serving the Lord and His Church."

The Argentine pope was admitted on February 14 to Gemelli Hospital due to pneumonia. The Vatican had declared his condition as "critical" at the time. He was discharged on March 23 after 38 days of hospitalization—the longest period he spent in the hospital since the beginning of his papacy.

On Sunday, he toured St. Peter's Square in his "Popemobile" among the worshippers, appearing exhausted, and was able to say only a few words, while an aide read the speech he intended to deliver to the congregation.

Despite warnings from his doctors, the pope, who used a wheelchair, insisted on maintaining an intense work pace even as his health continued to deteriorate. He suffered from hip problems and knee pain, underwent surgeries, experienced respiratory infections, and wore a hearing aid.

While Arab and international reactions continue to pour in, the Vatican revealed that the pope passed away in his apartment at the St. Martha’s Residence.

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