AUGUSTA, Ga. ()- Pope Francis has died at 88 years old– after leading the Roman Catholic Church for more than a decade. 

This comes after the Pope’s recent medical battle with double pneumonia and other health issues.

Those within the Catholic Community around the world, and right here in Augusta are mourning the loss of Pope Franis just hours after his appearance in Vatican City Easter Sunday.

The sound that rang in the streets of Vatican City, early Monday morning, and right here in the heart of Augusta.

“I was just shocked a little bit to hear it when I heard this morning, or read it this morning,” Member of Catholic Church Louis Hymel said.

On Easter day, the Pope gave his final blessing at the end of Easter Mass, addressing the people and riding through the streets in St. Peter’s Square.

“That was beautiful that he was able to be there for the faithful and share the resurrection of the Lord…” Member of Catholic Church Nancy Pendleton said.

Something many didn’t think would be possible just a month ago when the Pope was released from a five-week stay in the hospital after battling double pneumonia and bacterial infections.

“He had been ill, so we were anticipating that he would die, but for him to die on Easter Monday is very special, and we will continue to pray for him,” Pendleton said.

It’s what members of the local Catholic community will continue to do over the next nine days, along with remembering the Pope’s efforts. 

“The time between Jesus’ ascension and Pentecost was nine days– so, it’s called an avina. So, we pray for nine days, it’s the season of mourning,” Hymel said. “I think he had a real big heart for the poor, and the vulnerable– which I really admire and appreciate him for. He was a special, he was the first pope from our hemisphere– in South America specifically– so I’m grateful the Lord open that door for him so he can service that way.”

The Church of the Most Holy Trinity held mass early this afternoon honoring Pope Francis.