ROME, April 21 (Xinhua) -- Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, died Monday at the age of 88, said the Vatican in a statement.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on Dec. 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Francis was head of the Roman Catholic Church since 2013.

His death came weeks after returning home from a 38-day stay in intensive care, and followed an intense Holy Week schedule that included public appearances.

After a period of mourning, the Vatican will turn toward preparations for a gathering of the College of Cardinals to select Francis' successor. Enditem

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