The Vatican has announced the passing of Pope Francis, as millions of Catholics around the world mourn his death.
He was 88 years old at the time of his passing.
The Pope died following a serious illness caused by kidney failure.
He had recently been hospitalized with a respiratory illness, during which doctors confirmed he had developed pneumonia in both lungs.
Pope Francis, who became the head of the global Catholic Church in 2013, marked a historic era for the Church.
He was the first pope from the Western Hemisphere, the first South American pope, and the first from the Jesuit order.
His commitment to building unity among Catholics, other Christian denominations, and people of all faiths was widely praised.
In 2015, Pope Francis made a memorable visit to Sri Lanka, further strengthening ties with the Catholic community there.
