The Vatican has confirmed the Pope’s official cause of death, saying Monday afternoon that the late pontiff had suffered a cerebral stroke and subsequent irreversible heart failure.

Francis had battled poor health for several months, and had recently endured a long battle with double pneumonia.

He passed away early Monday morning, hours after he had made a surprise Easter Sunday showing at St. Peter’s Basilica to greet his eager followers.

The Washington Times has reached out to the USCCB for comment.

• Emma Ayers can be reached at eayers@washingtontimes.com.