The world is mourning the death of Pope Francis, aged 88.
After a lengthy health battle, including double pneumonia and bronchitis, the leader of the Catholic Church died on Easter Monday, less than 24 hours after his final public appearance.
The Vatican announced Francis’s death in a statement on Monday evening, confirming he died of a stroke and heart failure.
“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced on the Vatican’s TV channel.
“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.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has joined world leaders in paying tribute to Rome’s 266th Pope.
“Australian Catholics and faithful around the world give thanks for the life of their Holy Father, Pope Francis, Bishop of Rome,” Albanese said.
“He was very much a modernist. His message that he sent out echoed in our region during his historic visit to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Singapore and Timor-Leste.
“The first pope from the Southern Hemisphere was close to the people of Australia.
“For Australian Catholics, he was a devoted champion and loving father.”
Mr Albanese confirmed the Australian flag will fly at half mast from all Government buildings today.
“I have asked the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet that all flags from the Commonwealth Government of Australia will fly at half mast tomorrow as a sign of respect,” he said.
Pope Francis was the second oldest Pope in history, having led the Catholic Church since his election in 2013.
