The news of his passing sent shockwaves around the world, with world leaders and civilians alike paying tribute to his incredible legacy.
The world is mourning Pope Francis, the Catholic Church’s spiritual head, who died on Easter Monday at the age of 86.
The news of his passing sent shockwaves around the world, with world leaders and civilians alike paying tribute to his incredible legacy.
Pope Francis was a fighter for the poor and marginalized, and his message of hope and compassion touched millions around the world.
He was a strong supporter of social justice, environmental sustainability, and interfaith communication, and his example inspired a new generation of Catholics and non-Catholics alike.
French President Emmanuel Macron was one of the first to pay tribute to Pope Francis, calling him as a defender for the poorest and most vulnerable.
“From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis wanted the Church to bring joy and hope to the poorest,” Macron wrote in a condolence statement. “May this hope continually resurrect beyond him.”
He went on: “To all Catholics, to the grieving world, my wife and I send our thoughts.”
Israeli President Isaac Herzog also paid respect to Pope Francis, calling him “a man of deep faith and boundless compassion.”
Herzog emphasized the Pope’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Jewish community and promoting interfaith dialogue.
“He dedicated his life to uplifting the poor and calling for peace in a troubled world,” Herzog told the audience.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, reiterated these views, claiming that Pope Francis’ humility and love for the less fortunate had inspired millions.
“The world is mourning the death of Pope Francis, who inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate,” von der Leyen told reporters.
Pope Francis died at the age of 88, the Vatican said on Easter Monday.
His death came after a severe illness that had left the pontiff hospitalised and mainly missing from Holy Week liturgies, raising widespread concerns about his health.
According to Vatican News, the Holy Father died peacefully at 7:35 a.m. at his home in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the Pope’s death from the Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Farrell paid tribute to Pope Francis’ exceptional legacy, adding that he had dedicated his life to the service of the Lord and of His Church.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized,” Cardinal Farrell told the crowd.
As the world mourns Pope Francis’ death, his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us toward a more just, peaceful, and compassionate society. His message of hope and love will live on, and his influence on the world will last for decades.