The world mourns the death of Pope Francis, who died at 88 years old on Monday. As the first Latin American pope, he is being celebrated as a face of humility, compassion, and mercy—particularly for the world’s most needy.
From leaders around the world to celebrities, condolences are being expressed in abundance in tribute to the pontiff, who had an impact far beyond the reaches of the Church.
King Charles Remembers Last Visit, Refers to Pope as “Faithful Follower of Jesus Christ”
British King Charles, who had met the Pope with Queen Camilla on April 6—just days following Francis’ discharge from the hospital was overcome with grief. In a statement released by Us Weekly, he stated,
My wife and I were most profoundly grieved to hear of the passing of Pope Francis. Our sore hearts have been partially comforted, however, to realize that His Holiness was permitted to present an Easter Greeting to the Church and the world he loved so ardently throughout his life and ministry.”
He added, “We express our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences to the Church he served with unwavering dedication and to the millions of people all over the world who, motivated by his life, will be grieving the tragic loss of this devoted disciple of Jesus Christ.”
Global Leaders Remember Pope Francis
Former US President Joe Biden turned to X to mark the immense impact of the Pope: “It is with profound sadness that Jill and I received the news of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He was unlike any who preceded him.” Biden characterized Francis as “a loving pastor and tough teacher,” adding,
“He preached about equity and an end to poverty and pain throughout the world. Above all, he was a Pope for all people. He was the People’s Pope, a beacon of faith, hope, and love.”
Donald Trump, in a short post on Truth Social, stated, “Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!”
Vice President JD Vance also paid his respects on X, stating, “My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID. It was really quite beautiful. May God rest his soul.”
Celebrities Celebrate His Humanity
Hollywood actress and talk show host Whoopi Goldberg shared a personal photo with the Pope on Instagram, captioning,
“He was the nearest in years that seemed to recall that Christ’s love wrapped around believer and none believer. Sail on Pope Frances with your love of humanity & Laughter.”
Actor Antonio Banderas shared a poignant message with his own photo with the pontiff: “Pope Francisco has died — a man who, at the head of the Catholic Church, showed kindness, love, and mercy to the poorest people.”
Bridgerton actress Adjoa Andoh also tweeted on Instagram, saying, “RIP Pope Francis. Within the limitations of his tradition, evidently compassionate and on the side of the marginalised. What a loss.”
Actor Russell Crowe wrote a poetic tweet on X with an image of Rome: “A lovely day in Rome, but, sad day for the faithful. RIP Francis.”
Final Word from the Duchess of York
Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, captured the world’s feeling in a concise but powerful dedication on her Instagram Story:
“No better example of complete humility in kindness and compassion. Thank you for showing us not only through your words, but through your unshakeable service to humankind.
