British Royal Family, Joe Biden and other world leaders pay tribute to Pope Francis

The Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis on the morning of Easter Monday, April 21, 2025.

His Eminence, Cardinal Farrell expressed the deepest sorrow in announcing the death of Pope Francis.

Pope Francis had been unwell and experienced a string of health worries in recent years and spent 38 days in hospital in February and March 2025.

But he recovered enough to leave hospital and just yesterday was greeting crowds on Easter Sunday in St Peter’s Square.

Many world  leaders took to social media platforms, including Facebook and X, to express their condolences and pay tribute to a man widely seen as a spiritual reformer and a beacon of humility, compassion, and peace.

His Royal Majesty King Charles in a tribute stated: My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.”

Former US President Joe Biden tweeted: “Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him. For decades, he served the most vulnerable across Argentina and his mission of serving the poor never ceased.”

President Mahama also extended his heartfelt condolences to the Roman Catholic Church while recounting fond memories he shared with the Pope.

“The world woke up to the sad news of Pope Francis’ passing. I fondly remember visiting the Vatican with my wife, Lordina, where we had the distinct honour of meeting Pope Francis. His legacy of compassion, humility, and commitment to social justice will continue to inspire generations. His leadership and advocacy for the poor and marginalised resonate deeply. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” President Mahama noted.

Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, General Secretary of the Commonwealth, expressed her sorrow in a Facebook post: “Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His advocacy for the poor, peace and tolerance touched the lives of people across the Commonwealth and the world. May he rest in peace.”

Describing him as the “People’s Pope – a light of faith, hope, and love”, Biden said :It is with great sadness that Jill and I learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He was unlike any who came before him. As Pope, he was a loving pastor and challenging teacher who reached out to different faiths.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote on X: “Deeply saddened to hear of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis. His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of the people of the United Kingdom, I share my sincerest condolences to the whole Catholic Church.

French President Emmanuel Macron called the late pontiff “a man of humility,” recognizing Francis’s personal simplicity and his devotion to the marginalized.

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof remembered him as “a man of the people in every way,” reflecting the Pope’s lifelong commitment to bringing the Church closer to ordinary people.

Ukraine President Volodymr Zelensky praised Pope Francis saying “his life was devoted to God, to people, and to the Church. He knew how to give hope, ease suffering through prayer, and foster unity. He prayed for peace in Ukraine and for Ukrainians. We grieve together with Catholics and all Christians who looked to Pope Francis for spiritual support. Eternal memory”.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola remarked on his warmth and universal appeal, saying, “His contagious smile captured millions of people’s hearts across the globe.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog praised the Pope’s compassion: “Pope Francis showed boundless compassion and dedication to building bridges between faiths. His legacy of peace and unity will endure.”

Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter echoed similar sentiments, describing Francis as “a great spiritual leader, a tireless advocate for peace.”

Scottish First Minister John Swinney highlighted the Pope’s moral voice in international affairs: “He was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation in a world that desperately needed it.”

Filipino Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, in his tribute on X wrote: ” May you rest in peace, Pope Francis. You stood up and spoke out, relentless for the poor, the persecuted and the victims of war, the refugees, and the migrants. may you continue to give us faith and courage in this brutal world.

Chairperson of the African Union, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, paid his tribute to the late Pope for his courageous engagement with the African continent, amplifying the voices of the voiceless, championing peace and reconciliation and standing in solidarity with those affected by conflict and poverty.”

The Church of England, as well said a prayer for the late Pope Francis.

The post British Royal Family, Joe Biden and other world leaders pay tribute to Pope Francis first appeared on 3News.

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