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World Mourns Pope Francis: King Charles and Global Leaders Pay Tribute
VATICAN CITY – Following the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88, tributes have poured in from across the globe, with King Charles III joining other world leaders in expressing their condolences. The head of the Catholic Church’s death was announced early Easter Monday, plunging over a billion Catholics into mourning. His Majesty King Charles conveyed his deep sadness upon learning of the pontiff’s demise in Vatican City, recognizing the profound impact of Pope Francis’s compassion and influence on countless lives.
King Charles’s Condolences
The British monarch stated he was ‘deeply saddened’ by the news emanating from the Vatican early this morning. He emphasized that Francis, the first Pope from Latin America, would be ‘remembered for his compassion’ and acknowledged that he had ‘profoundly touched the lives of so many’ across the world.
Recent Meeting in Rome
Pope Francis’s death occurred shortly after King Charles and Queen Camilla’s visit to Rome, where they met with His Holiness. King Charles noted that both he and the Queen Consort were ‘greatly moved’ by their recent audience with the Pontiff during their royal tour of Italy just weeks prior.
Pope’s Recent Health
In recent months, the Pope had faced a series of health concerns, including a bout of pneumonia that necessitated hospitalization. Despite these challenges, he had sufficiently recovered to hold a private meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla on April 9th. He also participated in public events during the Easter weekend and had an audience with US Vice President JD Vance in recent days.
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Global Reactions to Pope Francis’s Death
The announcement of Pope Francis’s death on Easter Monday resonated globally, prompting reactions from political and religious figures worldwide.
Buckingham Palace Statement
Buckingham Palace released a formal statement where King Charles expressed his and Queen Camilla’s profound sorrow. The King highlighted the solace found in knowing Pope Francis was able to deliver an Easter message to the Church and the world. He further elaborated on the Pope’s legacy:
- Compassion and dedication to Church unity
- Unwavering commitment to shared values and goodwill among all people
- Belief in the importance of environmental stewardship as an expression of faith
- Profound impact on countless individuals through his work and care for both people and the planet
King Charles concluded by extending heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church and the global community mourning the loss.
Political Leaders Offer Tributes
Numerous political leaders joined King Charles in paying tribute to the late Pope Francis:
Statements from Prime Ministers and Presidents
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described Pope Francis as a ‘pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten’, highlighting his courageous leadership and deep humility during challenging times for the world and the Church.
Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, in an emotional statement, referred to Pope Francis as a ‘good friend’ and acknowledged their close relationship beyond formal roles. She spoke of his ability to provide comfort during difficult moments and his dedication to duty until his final days.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude for Pope Francis’s efforts to support Ukraine, acknowledging his prayers for peace and unity. He conveyed grief alongside Catholics and Christians worldwide.
Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized Pope Francis as a ‘defender of humanism and justice’, praising his efforts to foster dialogue between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches and constructive interaction between Russia and the Holy See.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized Pope Francis’s consistent support for the vulnerable and fragile, particularly in times of global conflict and brutality, recognizing his profound sense of empathy.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog lauded Pope Francis as a ‘man of deep faith and boundless compassion’ dedicated to the poor and peace, expressing hope for the fulfillment of his prayers for peace in the Middle East and the safe return of hostages.
Argentinian President Javier Milei conveyed his profound sorrow, recognizing Pope Francis’s goodness and wisdom as a true honor despite past differences.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz mourned the loss of ‘an advocate for the weak’, a reconciling and warm-hearted person, appreciating his clear perspective on global challenges.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Pope Francis as a ‘beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage’, recalling their meetings and his inspiration from the Pope’s commitment to inclusive development and affection for India.
US Vice President’s Account
US Vice President JD Vance, who recently met with Pope Francis, noted the Pontiff’s apparent illness during their Easter Sunday meeting, expressing sympathy for the global Christian community.
Mourning at Westminster Cathedral
At Westminster Cathedral in London, worshippers gathered for Easter Monday service were deeply saddened by the news of Pope Francis’s passing. Gergio Almeida, a visitor to the Cathedral, described the news as a ‘big shock’ and a ‘huge loss’ for the Catholic community, emphasizing Pope Francis’s efforts to unite different religions.
Richard and Janis Schlitt, honeymooning visitors, shared their memories and admiration for Pope Francis, with Mr. Schlitt having previously worked security for him. They spoke of his special connection with youth, his courage, and his role as a ‘Pope for everyone’.
Miriam Wilson, who traveled to Westminster Cathedral upon hearing the news, expressed profound sadness, calling Pope Francis an ‘inspiration’ to the world, noting his unwavering dedication until his final moments.
Congregation member Jonathan Bradley highlighted the Pope’s inspiring actions and personal touches, such as nightly calls to a church in Gaza and expressing gratitude to Vatican art restorers.
Sister Angela Moroney and Sister Margareta Cunningham, Sisters of Mercy, expressed shock at the suddenness of his death, despite his age and recent health concerns, acknowledging his suffering and dedication to the church and people.
Pope Francis’s Final Easter Message
In his final public act, Pope Francis delivered an Easter message, wishing ‘Happy Easter to everyone’ to a crowd of 35,000 in St. Peter’s Square. Despite appearing fatigued and requiring assistance, he participated in the blessing, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his duties.
Earlier in his Easter blessing, he had appealed for peace and an end to global conflicts, urging political leaders to use ‘weapons of peace’ and condemning violence and contempt towards the vulnerable.
Announcement of Death
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, officially announced the death of Pope Francis at 7:35 am local time (5:35 am GMT). The Vatican statement declared that Pope Francis ‘returned to the home of the Father’, recognizing his life-long dedication to serving the Lord and the Church.
Funeral Arrangements and Conclave
Pope Francis’s body will lie in state in St Peter’s Basilica during a period of official mourning. He will be buried in the basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, differing from the burial sites of most of his predecessors. His death initiates the centuries-old process of selecting a successor, with a conclave of cardinals to be convened in the Sistine Chapel at least 15 days from now. In the interim, the Vatican City State will be managed by the camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell.