Pope Francis, the first Latin American diocese in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican says.
His death on Monday came shortly after a double pneumonia match where he was hospitalized for five weeks at Gemeri University Hospital in Rome.
Just a day ago, the Pope welcomed thousands of Easter worshippers from the open-top popemobile at St. Peters Square and gave him blessings through his aides, making what would be his last big appearance.
The death of Pope 266 is a tribute to the world.
Italy
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni lamented the loss of “the great man, the great shepherd” and expressed deep sadness.
“I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his advice, his teachings. It never stopped, even in the trial or in times of suffering,” she said. “We say goodbye to our Holy Father with a heart filled with sorrow.”
Italian football authorities postponed the scheduled game on Monday.
Argentina
The Presidential Office said it deeply “remurred” the death of the Catholic Church’s first Argentine leader. Chainsaw-wielding President Javier Miley, who previously clashed with the Pope, praised Francis’ focus for his focus on inter-religious dialogue, encouraging spirituality among young people, and reducing costs for the Vatican.
european union
The European Commission’s Ursula von der Leyen said Francis’ life was defined by his efforts to build a more equitable and peaceful world. “He inspires millions of people far beyond the Catholic Church, and his humility and love are so pure to those who are underprivileged,” she said.
US
The White House wrote “Relaxed and Reassured, Pope Francis” along with photos of Pope President Donald Trump and the First Lady. Vice President J.D. Vice President J.D. Vice President Vance, who met the Pope on Sunday, said: “My heart goes to millions of Christians around the world who love him.”
Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his sincere sadness and praised his efforts to strengthen relations between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church. The Moscow patriarchy reflected sentiment and said that the late Pope played an important role in pursuing dialogue between the two branches of Christianity.
India
India Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: “Pope Francis is always remembered as a sign of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions of people around the world. He served the poor and oppressed people with great utmost determination.
France
French President Emmanuel Macron praised the enduring solidarity with the society’s most vulnerable society. “In this age of war and cruelty, he had a sense for others, the most vulnerable,” Macron praised his humility.
Philippines
In the Philippines, which boasts the largest Catholic population in Asia, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was called Francis, “the best pope of my life,” and praised the humility, faith and compassion for the poor. David of the Pablo Cardinal Virgilio expressed shock, ringing their bells in the church, calling the people to pray for the Pope’s “eternal reconciliation.”
Poland
Polish President Andrzezi Duda praised Francis as “the great apostle of mercy,” saying that the pope’s example provided answers to modern challenges. “In his idyllic ministry, he was led by humility and simplicity.”
Spain
Spain declared three days of mourning. Justice Minister Felix Bolanos said in a television speech that the country regrets the “death of a good man and the great Pope,” and praised Francis’ “reformed” Pope for “leaving a legacy for history.”
Australia
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Francis would lament all his faith to Australians and describe him as “a dedicated champion and loving father” to Catholics. “His compassion has embraced all humanity,” Albanese told ABC News. “He urged us to hear the cries of the earth and remember everything we share.”
Ethiopia
Prime Minister Abhiy Ahmed said the Pope’s death was a loss not only for Catholics but for humanity. “May his soul sleep in eternal peace, and the legacy of compassion, humility and service for humanity continue to inspire future generations,” he said.
East Timor
President Jose Ramos Horta described Francis’ death as a global loss. He announced that the national flag will be dropped to staff for a week and a half.
Egypt
The Egyptian Coptic Orthodox Church lamented Pope Francis, who called him a “true example of Christian humility.”
Germany
Friedrich Merz, who is waiting in Germany, said Francis will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the marginalized. “He was led by humility and faith in God’s mercy,” Meltz writes in X.
Iran
Iran’s Foreign Ministry acknowledged the global spiritual impact of Francis. Spokesman Esmail Baghaei said Iran “sorrows dol to all Christians around the world.”
Tibet
The Dalai Lama offered to Buddhist prayers and to the Pope’s envoy to write death to “express sadness.” “Pope Francis was dedicated to the service of others. His actions made him consistently clear how he would live a simple but meaningful life,” the Buddhist leader said in a statement from his base in exile in India. “The best compliment we can pay him is to be a warm person and serve others everywhere.”
England
King Charles said he was “the deepest and most saddened,” praised Pope Francis for his “compassion,” his commitment to unity, and his environment. Prime Minister Kiel Starmer expressed his sadness and said that Francis’ “continuous efforts to promote a world of fairness for all.”
