Christians all over the world are mourning the death of former Pope Benedict XVI, who became the first pontiff to resign in some 600 years.
The ailing pope emeritus died Saturday, New Year’s Eve, aged 95.
His successor Pope Francis had earlier on Friday called for prayers saying former Pope Benedict XVI was “very sick”.
The Vatican announced the passing on Twitter.
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa joins Catholics and adherents globally in mourning the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XV1.
His Holiness passed away close to 10 years after resigning from his role as head of the Catholic Church.
President Ramaphosa said: “South Africans share the sadness felt by millions of the Catholic faithful worldwide at the passing of the pope emeritus.
“In this season of Christian fellowship, the passing of His Holiness is certain to add to the intensity with which Catholic adherents and other communities of faith carried the Pope Emeritus in their prayers in the closing days of his life.
“We reflect with deep regard on the spirit leadership Pope Benedict XV1 provided to his Church and humanity more broadly.
“The prayers and concern expressed by millions for His Holiness in recent weeks and days will now sustain and comfort the faithful in this hour of grief.”