Tributes from across the globe have poured in following the passing of Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. Political leaders and public figures have honoured the late Pope’s legacy of compassion, humility, and commitment to peace and justice.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her deep sorrow in a heartfelt statement.
“Pope Francis has returned to the house of the Father. It is news that deeply saddens us, as we lose a great man and a great shepherd. I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his advice, and his teachings – support that never failed, even in times of trial and suffering.
In his meditations for the Way of the Cross, he reminded us of the power of giving, which brings everything back to life and has the ability to reconcile what seems irreconcilable in the eyes of man.
And he called on the world, once again, to have the courage to change course, to take a path that ‘does not destroy, but cultivates, restores, and protects.’
We will walk in this direction; to seek the path of peace, pursue the common good, and build a fairer and more just society.
His teaching and legacy will not be lost.
We bid farewell to the Holy Father with heavy hearts, but we know he is now at peace with the Lord.”
Macron and von der Leyen add their tributes
French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the Pope’s global mission and his commitment to unity.
“From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis wanted the Church to bring joy and hope to the poorest. He wanted it to unite humanity with one another and with nature. May this hope continue to rise again and again, beyond him.
To all Catholics and to a grieving world, my wife and I send our thoughts.”
Germany’s President Frank-Walter Steinmeier praised the late pontiff’s efforts for reconciliation and justice.
“The death of Pope Francis fills me with great sorrow. Francis will be remembered for his tireless commitment to the most vulnerable in society, for justice, and for reconciliation. Humility and faith in God’s mercy guided him. In this way, the first Latin American on the Holy See touched people around the world and across religious boundaries.
My thoughts are with believers across the globe who have lost their Holy Father. May he rest in peace.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spoke of the Pope’s far-reaching influence.
“Today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis. He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate. My thoughts are with all who feel this profound loss. May they find solace in the idea that Pope Francis’ legacy will continue to guide us all toward a more just, peaceful and compassionate world.”
India and Israel send condolences
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Pope Francis for his dedication to Christ’s teachings and social justice.
“Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world.
From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope.
I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace.”
Israeli President Isaac Herzog noted the Pope’s commitment to interfaith dialogue and peace in the Holy Land.
“I send my deepest condolences to the Christian world and especially the Christian communities in Israel – the Holy Land – on the loss of their great spiritual father, His Holiness Pope Francis.
A man of deep faith and boundless compassion, he dedicated his life to uplifting the poor and calling for peace in a troubled world. He rightly saw great importance in fostering strong ties with the Jewish world and in advancing interfaith dialogue as a path toward greater understanding and mutual respect.
I truly hope that his prayers for peace in the Middle East and for the safe return of the hostages will soon be answered. May his memory continue to inspire acts of kindness, unity, and hope.”
Pope Francis tributes will continue
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, served as the head of the Catholic Church since March 2013. He was the first Pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to assume the role. His legacy includes outspoken advocacy for the poor, environmental justice, and interfaith cooperation.
Further tributes and reflections on his life are expected in the coming days as the world mourns the passing of a deeply influential spiritual leader.
