Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, just one day after making a hopeful and uplifting appearance at Saint Peter’s Square during Easter Sunday celebrations, the Vatican announced in an official statement.

“With deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father, Francis,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a message shared via the Vatican’s official Telegram channel. “This morning, at 7:35 a.m. (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was devoted to serving the Lord and His Church.”

The Pope’s passing came as a shock to many, especially after his surprise appearance from the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica the previous day, where he greeted worshippers despite recovering from a serious illness.

Earlier this year, Pope Francis had faced two life-threatening episodes due to pneumonia and had spent 38 days hospitalized before being discharged on March 23.

During Sunday’s Easter Mass, he smiled and waved to the crowd, wishing everyone a "Happy Easter." In his traditional Urbi et Orbi (“To the City and the World”) blessing, he emphasized the importance of freedom of thought and tolerance.