Global Leaders Pay Tribute to the First Pope from the Southern Hemisphere
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Synopsis
On April 21, world leaders expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at 88. Tributes highlighted his compassion, commitment to social justice, and significant impact on millions worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88.
- He was the first pope from the Southern Hemisphere.
- His legacy includes a commitment to social justice.
- Leaders from around the globe mourned his passing.
- Pope Francis emphasized the need for compassion and unity.
New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) Numerous global leaders expressed their sorrow on Monday following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.
J D Vance, the Vice President of the United States, who had a brief private meeting with Pope Francis in Italy on Easter Sunday morning, remarked that "he was happy to see him yesterday" before his journey to New Delhi.
"I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians globally who loved him. I was glad to see him yesterday, although he was clearly very ill. I will always recall his beautiful homily delivered during the early days of COVID. May God rest his soul," stated Vance.
Earlier, Vance shared the honor of meeting Pope Francis, Prime Minister Meloni, and church officials in Italy over the weekend.
"Visiting Rome with my family during Holy Week was an amazing experience," he posted on X after arriving in India.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina in 1936 and ordained a priest in 1969, was "close to the people of Australia" and served as "a devoted champion and loving father" for Australian Catholics.
Albanese noted that Pope Francis, elected by his fellow cardinals in 2013, marked many milestones - the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to adopt the name of the great advocate for the poor, St Francis of Assisi.
"Australian Catholics and faithful worldwide express gratitude for the life of their Holy Father, Pope Francis, Bishop of Rome. Today, the prayers of over a billion individuals - from every nation and walk of life - accompany Pope Francis to his eternal rest," read a statement from the office of the Australian Prime Minister.
Albanese remarked that Pope Francis' compassion encompassed all humanity as he called for everyone to heed the 'cry of the earth', our shared home. He urged world leaders to unite and "emerge from the dark night of wars and environmental destruction to transform our collective future into a new and glorious dawn" - a message he reiterated during his landmark visit to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, and Timor-Leste.
"Pope Francis embodied his faith and mission in both words and actions. Through his humble lifestyle and weekly audiences, he showcased his dedication to peace, equality, and inclusion. His profound love for humanity was evident and will be remembered for years to come," he added.
Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Union, stated that Pope Francis' life inspired millions.
"Today, the world grieves the loss of Pope Francis. He inspired millions, extending beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and pure love for the less fortunate. My thoughts are with all who are experiencing this immense loss. May they find comfort in knowing that Pope Francis' legacy will continue to guide us toward a more just, peaceful, and compassionate world," von der Leyen wrote on X.
Christopher Luxon, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, expressed that Pope Francis' legacy includes a steadfast commitment to the vulnerable.
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. A humble man, his legacy includes a relentless dedication to the vulnerable, social justice, and interfaith dialogue. My thoughts are with Catholics and all those in New Zealand and around the globe who mourn his loss," he stated.
