THE Vatican has released a touching tribute to Pope Francis following the announcement if his death at 88 on Monday morning.
Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, commended the pontiff’s “life dedicated to service”, and reflected on the lessons he taught Christians around the world.
The Cardinal’s statement read: “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 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.″
The Vatican, the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, was joined by world leaders paying their respects to Pope Francis.
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