Investing.com -- Pope Francis, known for his efforts to steer the Catholic Church towards issues of social and economic justice, has passed away at the age of 88, as confirmed by the Vatican.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Farrell said in a video statement.
He passed away at 7:35 a.m. in Rome on Monday, according to Vatican.
The Pope's passing follows a period of serious illness earlier this year, during which he was hospitalized for several weeks due to a severe case of pneumonia.
Despite returning to his residence in the Vatican, his health remained fragile.
