Pope Francis, who made history as the first leader from Latin America to head the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away, as announced by the Vatican in a video statement on Monday. He was 88 years old and had been battling a severe case of double pneumonia recently.
As the worldwide Christian community mourns, tributes are pouring in from global leaders honoring the late pontiff.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who had just met with the pope during a recent trip to Italy, expressed his condolences for Christians around the world. “I was deeply saddened to hear about Pope Francis’ passing. My thoughts are with the countless Christians globally who held him dear. It was a joy to see him yesterday (Sunday), despite his evident illness. I’ll always cherish his beautiful homily from the early days of COVID,” he stated.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her sorrow over the loss of “a remarkable man and a guiding shepherd.” She remarked, “I was fortunate to have his friendship and to receive his guidance and teachings, which never ceased even in times of hardship.”
French President Emmanuel Macron paid his respects, saying, “Throughout his time as pope, Francis consistently stood by the most vulnerable and fragile among us, demonstrating great humility. In these times of conflict and brutality, he showed a deep empathy for others.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also remembered the late pope, noting that “Pope Francis will forever be recognized as a symbol of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage to millions around the globe.” He added, “He dedicated himself to supporting the poor and the marginalized, inspiring hope in those who suffered. I fondly recall my discussions with him and was profoundly moved by his dedication to inclusive development. His affection for the people of India will be fondly remembered. May his soul rest in peace within God’s embrace.”
German Chancellor-in-Waiting Friedrich Merz emphasized Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to the most disadvantaged members of society. He remarked on X, “He was guided by humility and had faith in God’s mercy.”
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, expressed his deep shock over the news of Pope Francis’s passing. He requested that “the bells of our churches be rung and our communities called to prayer for the eternal rest of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who passed away just minutes ago.”
