Pope Francis Death News Live Updates: Vatican sets out nine days of mourning for pope from Saturday

Pope Francis Death News Live: Pope Francis died on Monday at the age of 88, just a day after making a much-anticipated appearance at Saint Peter's Square for Easter Sunday celebrations, the Vatican said in a statement."Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis," announced Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a message shared by the Vatican on its Telegram channel."This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church."Francis's passing came only a day after he brought joy to worshippers by appearing on the balcony of Saint Peter's Basilica for Easter Sunday, despite still recovering from a serious illness.Earlier this year, Francis had faced two close brushes with death due to pneumonia and spent 38 days in hospital before being discharged on March 23.On Sunday, he greeted the crowds in Saint Peter's Square with a heartfelt "Happy Easter" and, during his traditional "Urbi et Orbi" ("To the City and the World") blessing, called for freedom of thought and tolerance.