Thank you so much for joining us.

Tributes are pouring in for Pope Francis, who died earlier today at the age of 88.

Pope Francis suffered a health crisis earlier this year and spent more than a month in the hospital with double pneumonia.

His death comes one day after he appeared in public to give the blessing for Easter mass.

Pope Francis served as head of the Roman Catholic Church for 12 years.

He was a strong advocate for the poor and worked to make the church more inclusive.

Governor Andy Beshear says he will be remembered for his compassion and leadership posting on social media.

Quote.

Pope Francis earned the title of People's Pope by showing kindness and mercy, standing for love above hate, and extending a hand to help all people.

He, led by example and his humility and dedication to God, brought people together.

His loss is great, but his impact is greater.

End quote.

The governor has ordered flags at state office buildings to be lowered to half staff until the Pope's internment, which has not yet been determined.

Several members of Kentucky's federal delegation, also commenting on the passing of Pope Francis, including Senator Mitch McConnell.

In a statement, he said in part, quote, from the beginning of his papacy, the Holy Father invited Christians from every walk of life to more fully embrace the call to care for the vulnerable, including the unborn and the poorest among us.

He reminded us by word and deed that we are all called to live lives of faithful service.

Father Jim Ciccio, who served the Diocese of Lexington and met with Pope Francis on several occasions, posted a statement on social media that reads in part, quote, A shepherd of deep compassion and wavering humility and boundless mercy.

Pope Francis embodied the very heart of Christ for our time.

His love for the poor, the forgotten and the broken opened the doors of the church wider than ever before, reminding us all that mercy is not a concept.

It's a way of life.

The Vatican has not announced any specific arrangements, but Pope Francis's funeral is expected to take place within the next six days.