Leaders across the American continent paid tribute to Pope Francis after news of his death on April 21, 2025. The Pope, who served as the head of the Catholic Church since 2013, passed away at the age of 88 in his residence at Casa Santa Marta in Rome, according to Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, who made the announcement at 9:47 AM.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney remembered the Pope as a "pastor of profound moral clarity, spiritual courage and infinite compassion," emphasizing his role in redefining the moral responsibilities of leadership in the 21st century. Carney noted that the Pope's teachings highlighted that "market value should never eclipse societal values."
The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, expressed her sorrow on social media, referring to the Pope as a "great humanist who defended the poor, peace, and equality." She stated that it was a "great honor and privilege" to have met him, reflecting on the impact he had on millions globally.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva lamented the Pope's death, stating that "humanity loses a voice of respect and acceptance for others." Lula da Silva emphasized that the Pope always stood by those in need, including the poor, refugees, youth, the elderly, and victims of wars and prejudice.
U.S. President Donald Trump commemorated the Pope on social media, writing, "May God bless him and all who loved him!" His message echoed sentiments shared by various political leaders across the United States, who also paid their respects to the late pontiff.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel praised the Pope for his "displays of affection and cordial closeness" to the Cuban people, recalling fond memories of his visits and messages of love directed at them. Colombian President Gustavo Petro described the Pope as a "great friend," expressing his feelings of loneliness upon hearing of his passing. He praised the pontiff's spiritual leadership, stating that his papal letters would "go down in history if we are able to build a humanity that defends its greatest good: Life."
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro also mourned the Pope, referring to him as a defender of marginalized communities, particularly in the Global South. He called Francis a "brother" of the region and a "transformative spiritual leader," whose clear and brave voice denounced the inequalities of the dominant system and called for the construction of a more humane, just, and deeply supportive world.
According to reports, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis died due to a stroke, which caused a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory failure. His last public appearance was on April 20, 2025, when he delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from the balcony of the Basilica of Saint Peter after the Resurrection Sunday mass.
The Government of Spain declared three days of official mourning following the Pope's death, with the Minister of the Presidency, Félix Bolaños, stating, "A good man has died." This sentiment was echoed by many leaders and citizens around the world who recognized the Pope's commitment to peace and social justice.
As the world processes this loss, the first general congregation of cardinals will take place on April 22, 2025, to discuss the next steps for the Church, including the selection of a new pope. The Holy See also made public the testament of Pope Francis, in which he expressed his desire to be buried in a simple tomb at the Basilica Papal of Santa Maria la Mayor, a place he held dear.
In his testament, dated June 29, 2022, Francis requested that his remains rest in a simple grave with the inscription "Franciscus." He had always entrusted his life and ministry to the Virgin Mary, asking that his final earthly journey conclude in this ancient Marian sanctuary.
As preparations for his funeral begin, the Vatican announced that the transfer of the Pope's body to the Vatican Basilica for homage by the faithful could occur on the morning of April 23, 2025. The funeral is expected to take place between Friday and Sunday of that week, following the regulations governing papal funerals.
In a show of solidarity, the Eiffel Tower in Paris dimmed its lights in honor of the Pope, with Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo announcing the gesture to honor his memory. She highlighted the Pope’s universal message of solidarity, peace, and humanity, expressing that his commitment to a Church that reaches out to the vulnerable will be remembered.
The world of sports also paid tribute, as LaLiga in Spain observed a minute of silence before matches on the day of the Pope's passing. Notably, Argentine football star Lionel Messi expressed his condolences on social media, thanking the Pope for making the world a better place.
As the international community mourns, many leaders, including former U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, shared their reflections on the Pope’s unique impact. Obama described him as a leader who made people want to be better, while Biden noted that Francis was unlike any pontiff before him.
As tributes pour in from all corners of the globe, it is clear that Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, humility, and a commitment to social justice that resonated with millions. His call for a Church that serves the poor and marginalized, along with his advocacy for environmental stewardship and peace, will continue to inspire future generations.
In this time of mourning, the Church and its followers are united in prayer, reflecting on a leader whose life was dedicated to service, love, and the pursuit of a more just world.
