The Vatican has announced the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday.

The 88 year old Pontiff began his papacy in March 2013 and was the first pontiff from Latin America. He was also the first Pope from the Jesuit order. 

His death comes after a five-week hospital stay in Rome’s Gemelli hospital, following a 38 day battle with pneumonia in March.

In a statement on Monday morning Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican Camerlengo, said: .“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church″

The Cardinal wrote that the Pope “taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized”

He added: “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 God, One and Tribune”

A papal conclave will be held to elect his successor.

Among the tributes poring in, Britain’s King Charles said that he and the Queen were ‘most deeply saddened’ to learn of the death of Pope Francis and ‘were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month’.

Charles said the Pope “profoundly touched the lives of so many”.

UK Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer also expressed his condolences and said Francis was a pope for the poor, downtrodden and forgotten. He said “his tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy.”