Pope Francis issued emotional final message right before his death aged 88

Pope Francis issued an emotional message the day before his death (21 April), when he stepped out to greet the crowds on Easter Sunday.

The Vatican announced earlier this morning (21 April), that Pope Francis has died.

In a statement announcing his death, Cardinal Kevin Ferrell of the Vatican 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. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised."

He ended by saying they 'commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune'.

On Easter Sunday (20 April), the 88-year-old attended his last public appearance on the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, where he gave the attendees a heartfelt speech.

The Pope has died at the age of 88 (Franco Origlia / Contributor / Getty)

His Easter Sunday message was one of peace and 'respect for the views of others'.

Reading on his behalf, an aide said: "There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression."

He continued to mention the people who have died in Gaza, with a particular focus on the Christians there, where he further noted that the conflict 'causes death and destruction' and creates a 'deplorable humanitarian situation'.

He added: "What a great thirst for death, for killing we see in the many conflicts raging in different parts of the world."

Pope Francis extended his sympathy for 'all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people' and also urged for a ceasefire.

He made his final public appearance yesterday (20 April) on Easter Sunday (TIZIANA FABI / Contributor / Getty)

He said: "Call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace."

As well as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he also mentioned the war between Russia and Ukraine, and suggested that all parties involved should 'pursue efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace'.

Prior to his death, Pope Francis had been in hospital after being admitted due to a respiratory crisis which then led to double pneumonia, The Independent reports.

He spent 38 days at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he received the diagnosis of bronchitis and kidney issues.

Several huge figures, including King Charles III, have paid tribute to the religious leader.

Following the Pope's passing, nine days of mourning will commence before his successor will be chosen as part of a ritual known as 'papal conclave'.

The Catholic Church's most senior officials, known as the College of Cardinals, will wait 15 days before beginning the vote on who the next Pope should be.

Currently, there are 252 Catholic cardinals, 138 of whom are eligible to vote for the new Pope.