The Vatican today announced the death of Pope Francis at 7.35am on Monday 21 April at his residence in the Vatican's Santa Marta.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words:

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. 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 favor of the poorest and most marginalized. 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."

In the quiet depths of our contemplative hearts, we, the Carmelites of Australia and Timor-Leste, offer a heartfelt tribute to His Holiness Pope Francis—a shepherd whose life has radiated mercy, humility, and the transformative power of God’s love.

As we prepare to bid him farewell, we invoke the gentle guidance of the Holy Spirit, trusting that his legacy of compassion and service will continue to inspire us in this life and beyond, into the promise of eternal life after death. His unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalized, his call to live simply and prayerfully, and his bold witness to the Gospel have been a beacon of hope in our troubled world. We now place him under the loving protection and intercession of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, whose maternal care comforts us and assures us of God’s abiding presence.

May our prayers, steeped in the silence and intimacy of our Carmelite tradition, accompany him on his eternal journey, and may his life remain an ever-guiding light towards a deeper union with God for all who follow his inspiring example.