Pope Francis / World leaders including PM Modi expressed grief over the demise of Pope Francis

Pope Francis: A spiritual guide and symbol of compassion for millions of people around the world, Pope Francis died on Monday morning at the age of 88. He breathed his last at 7:35 am (local time) at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. Cardinal Kevin Farrell officially announced his death. The Pope had been battling double pneumonia, bronchitis and kidney complications for a long time.

He was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on 14 February 2025, and although he was discharged from the hospital in March, his condition continued to be critical. Ironically, on the last day of his life, 20 April, he gave the Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter's Square and met US Vice President JD Vance—an example of his indomitable courage and spirit of service.

World leaders mourned, shared tributes

French President Emmanuel Macron mourned the death of the Pope, writing, "From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis always wanted the Church to be a source of hope and joy for the poor. His message is still relevant today: unity between nature and humanity. This hope will live on even after him."

US Vice President JD Vance also expressed his condolences. He said, "It was a pleasure to see him yesterday, but it was clear that he was very ill. I will remember him for the day when he gave us comforting words during Covid. His words echoed depth and humanity."

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, writing, "The world will always remember Pope Francis as a symbol of compassion, humility and spiritual courage. He had made serving the poor and suffering a life's goal."

Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni also paid emotional tribute. He said, "Pope Francis has returned home to Jesus. He was a priest who never wavered—no matter how difficult life was. He showed us a new way: one that does not destroy, but rebuilds."

Pope Francis' legacy: End of an era

Pope Francis, who was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was elected as the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church in 2013. He was the first non-European Pope and the first Jesuit to hold the highest office. Throughout his tenure, he became a voice for the marginalized, with his views on climate change, the refugee crisis, the LGBTQ+ community, and inter-religious dialogue transcending the traditional boundaries of the Church.

His simple lifestyle, humility, and strong religious faith made him a moral guide not only in the Catholic world, but globally as well.

Signs of a new era

Pope Francis' death marks the end of a chapter that made the Catholic Church more humane, inclusive, and socially responsible. Now as the world Church looks to choose his successor, it is clear that Pope Francis’ legacy will not be limited to the Church alone—it will continue to inspire all of humanity.