United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will travel to Rome to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
“Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!” Trump announced on his social media platform, Truth Social.
The Passing of a Global Spiritual Icon
Pope Francis died of a stroke followed by heart failure, according to the Vatican Press Office. Other medical conditions—including type II diabetes, arterial hypertension, and a past episode of acute respiratory failure—also contributed to his demise. He passed away at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta.
Born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was ordained a Catholic priest in 1969. Following Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation in 2013, he was elected the 266th Pope on March 13 and took the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Tributes from Around the World
President Trump expressed his condolences shortly after the news broke.
“Rest in Peace, Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!” he wrote on Truth Social.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid heartfelt tribute, saying:
“Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage… He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope.”
India Declares State Mourning
In memory of Pope Francis, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declared a three-day State Mourning across India—on April 22, 23, and the day of the funeral. During this period, the national flag will fly at half-mast and no official entertainment will take place.
What Happens Next?
The Vatican will observe a nine-day mourning period known as Novemdiales. Following this, the College of Cardinals will assemble for a Conclave to elect the next Vicar of Christ, the spiritual leader for over a billion Catholics worldwide.
