The death of Pope Francis in the early hours of Monday at the age of 88 drew huge reactions from world leaders and the Christian community.
Francis, who became the first Latin-American pontiff in 2013 and was one of the oldest popes in the church’s history, died weeks after he was discharged from a Rome hospital.
He had battled a life-threatening pneumonia in both lungs.
His medical team said his condition had stabilised, allowing him to return to his Casa Santa Marta residence back at the Vatican.
In his tribute, King Charles described the late Pontiff as “compassionate,” hailing him for his passion for unity.
“My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry,” Charles said in a statement.
“His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith, and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others,” he added.
UK Prime Minister, Kerr Stammer, said the Pope’s “leadership in a complex and challenging time for the world and the church was often courageous, yet always came from a place of deep humility.”
He added, “Pope Francis was a pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten. He was close to the realities of human fragility, meeting Christians around the world facing war, famine, persecution and poverty. Yet he never lost the faith-fuelled hope of a better world.
“With his death, we are reminded once more of his call to care for one another across different faiths, backgrounds, nations and beliefs. My thoughts are with Catholics across the world, and the Roman Catholic church. May His Holiness Rest in Peace,” the prime minister said.
President Donald Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform hours after his death, said, “Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!“ he wrote on his social media platform.
The U.S. Vice President, JD Vance, recalled his final meeting with the pope just a day before his death. “I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the beautiful homily he gave in the early days of COVID. May God rest his soul.”
The White House also posted a brief message: “Rest in Peace, Pope Francis.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message of condolence to Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, noting Francis’ efforts in fostering dialogue.
“Throughout the years of his pontificate, he actively promoted the development of dialogue between the Russian Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches, as well as constructive cooperation between Russia and the Holy See,” Putin said.
From Argentina, President Javier Milei paid tribute to his fellow countryman.
“It is with profound sorrow that I learned this sad morning that Pope Francis, Jorge Bergoglio, passed away today and is now resting in peace. Despite differences that seem minor today, having been able to know him in his goodness and wisdom was a true honor for me,” Milei said.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed sorrow, saying, “Pope Francis has returned to the Father’s house. This news deeply saddens us. I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his advice, and his teachings, which never failed, even in times of trial and suffering.”
Across Europe, tributes poured in, starting from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen who called him “an inspiration to millions” and lauded his “humility and love for the less fortunate.”
Kaja Kallas, Vice President of the European Commission, also expressed gratitude for his leadership “in defending human dignity.”
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised Francis’ alignment with the world’s most vulnerable people.
“In this time of war and brutality, he had a sense for the other, for the most fragile,” Macron said.
In Asia, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered the pope as “a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage.”
“I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development,” he added.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog paid tribute to Pope Francis’ commitment to peace.
“He dedicated his life to uplifting the poor and calling for peace in a troubled world. I truly hope that his prayers for peace in the Middle East and for the safe return of the hostages will soon be answered,” he said.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany wrote, “With the death of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church and the world lose an advocate for the weak, a reconciling and warm-hearted person.”
The President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, also reacted saying, “Oh my God. I am so shocked by this. Let us please ring the bells of our churches and call our people to prayer.”
President Salome Zurabishvili of Georgia recalled her official visit to the Vatican and extended condolences to the Catholic faithful.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson also noted Pope Francis’ commitment to social justice and human dignity, citing his historic 2016 visit to Sweden.
Kemi Badenoch, UK Conservative leader, said, “His death on Easter Monday feels especially poignant. He reminded us that leadership isn’t about power, but about service.”
Jordan’s King Abdullah II in his post, called Pope Francis “the Pope of the People” and added that “His legacy will live on in his good deeds and teachings.”
NATO Secretary-General expressed appreciation for the Pope’s message of peace saying, “His dedication to peace and compassion has been an inspiration to millions.”
Pope Francis leaves behind not just a spiritual legacy but a global movement for justice, mercy, and unity that transcended faith and politics.
