Tributes have been pouring in following the announcement of the sudden death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday at the age of 88.
His death was announced on Monday morning by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo. “Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” a statement from the camerlengo said.
“At 7:35 this morning the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His whole life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
READ ALSO: Pope Francis passes away at 88
Farrell continued, “He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.”
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the Triune God,” the statement concluded.
Reacting to the death of the world catholic leader, Swiss President Karin Keller-Stutter described Pope Francis “a great spiritual leader” adding that his “legacy will remain.”
In a post on X, President Keller-Stutter shared a picture of the pope with the caption: “tireless advocate for peace” whose warmth and comfort was not limited to only Catholics.”
Germany’s chancellor in-waiting, Friedrich Merz, said he is filled with “great sadness,” following the death of the religious leader.
On his official X account, Merz said Francis would be remembered for his “tireless commitment to the weakest in society, to justice and reconciliation, which was guided by “humility and faith in God’s mercy.”
“In doing so, the first Latin American to sit on the Holy See touched people worldwide, across denominational boundaries,” the incoming chancellor added.
Also, Dutch Prime Minister, Dick Schoof in his condolences described Pope Francis “a role model for many.”
In a post on X, he wrote: “Pope Francis was in every way a man of the people. The global Catholic community bids farewell to a leader who recognised the burning issues of our day and called attention to them. With his sober way of life, acts of service and compassion, Pope Francis was a role model for many — Catholics and non-Catholics alike. We remember him with great respect.”
Vice President of the United States, JD Vance remebered Pope Francis for “the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID.”during the COVID.”
He wrote on X: “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. “I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID. It was really quite beautiful.”
