Former Catholic pontiff, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is dead.
“With sorrow I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 AM in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican. Further information will be provided as soon as possible.”
The Holy See Press Office announced Saturday morning.
Pope Benedict’s health had worsened in recent times due to his advanced age. He resigned from the Petrine ministry in 2013, paving way for the incumbent Pope Francis.
His funeral rites will be announced in the short order, The Holy See Press Office said.