BY: CHARLES NIKKO LIMON
Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at 7:35 AM local time (1:35 PM in the Philippines).
The announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell of the Apostolic Chamber.
Pope Francis had been hospitalized for several days earlier in February due to bronchitis and was later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.
According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, Pope Francis requested simple funeral rites focused on expressing the faith of the Church in the life and body of Christ.
The Pope’s remains are now at the Vatican Church.
Pope Francis’s death follows a gradual decline in his health since his hospitalization in February.