Pope Francis, the first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief from all corners of the world.
The Pope, who had only recently been released from the hospital after treatment for an infection, died at 07:35 local time on Monday. Just days before, he had addressed crowds during the Easter Sunday service at the Vatican.
Tributes have been pouring in from leaders and citizens alike. In Asia-Pacific, Pope Francis was remembered for promoting interfaith harmony during his extensive 12-day tour last September, which included visits to Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, and Singapore. Religious leaders and citizens alike recalled his openness, humility, and dedication to peace and dialogue.
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In Africa, especially outside the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi, many remembered the Pope for his efforts to highlight injustice and oppression. Locals praised him for championing the poor and the marginalized and for offering messages of hope during tough economic times.
In Bangkok, faithful Catholics gathered in churches to pray and reflect, holding masses in his memory. In Ireland, the Pope was honored for his deep commitment to compassion, human dignity, and global ethics.
Pope Francis had also maintained a keen interest in South Sudan, where he actively encouraged peace and reconciliation between political rivals, even writing to the country’s leaders from his hospital bed.
Across the globe, memorials and mourning events have been initiated. In his homeland Argentina, seven days of national mourning were declared. Brazil and Spain have also announced mourning periods. Church bells rang in Austria, while the Eiffel Tower lights were turned off in France as a symbol of respect.
The Vatican has announced that a public prayer service will be held in St Peter’s Square. The official Vatican website has been updated to reflect the Pope’s passing, and preparations are underway for the election of a new pope.
Pope Francis was deeply admired in Latin America, not only because of his roots but because of his humble beginnings and his devotion to the common people. Despite a decline in Catholic affiliation in the region, his influence remained significant.
His death has stirred profound sadness in Buenos Aires, where many gathered in churches to mourn. Citizens spoke of their admiration for his inclusive messages and support for marginalized communities.
During his time as pope, Francis was a well-known supporter of the Argentine football club San Lorenzo, a connection he proudly maintained even after ascending to the papacy. The club expressed its sorrow and gratitude, calling him “one of us” in life and beyond.
In the United States, political figures praised Pope Francis as a transformative leader who challenged the world to be more compassionate and ethical. Former presidents and current officials expressed their condolences and recalled personal moments with him.
Palestinian Christians in Bethlehem mourned the loss of a leader they considered a friend and ally. His efforts for peace in the region and support for Christian minorities left a lasting impact.
As mourners gather at the Vatican, many reflect on the Pope’s enduring legacy—his commitment to social justice, environmental protection, interfaith dialogue, and the dignity of every human being.
The Pope’s body is expected to be moved to St Peter’s Basilica for public viewing as early as Wednesday, marking the beginning of formal funeral rites.