Pope Francis, Global Advocate for Climate and the Poor, Dies at 88

VATICAN CITY — Mere weeks after Pope Francis' return to the Vatican following an extended stay at Rome's Gemelli hospital, Cardinal Kevin Farrell released a public statement:

"With deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized."

The first pope from the Americas and a towering figure in the modern Catholic Church— Pope Francis, 88, died at 7:35 am Monday, bringing a sorrowful close to his 12-year mission to bring the Church closer to the people. Revered as a humble reformer and a passionate voice for the environment, Francis leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the walls of the Vatican.

The Pope made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, blessing the crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square.

Global Catholic Community Reacts to Pope Francis' Death