Pope Francis dies: World reacts, Vatican prepares for conclave

Pope Francis died on Monday morning at the age of 88, The Vatican ‘Camerlengo’ Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, announced this morning.

“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 of his church. He taught us to live the values of the gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

Follow here as the world reacts to the death of the Argentinian pontiff, and as the Vatican prepares for a conclave, the ancient method through which the Church cardinals will select Francis’ successor.