On Easter Monday, just a day after Christ was celebrated as risen, Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 in Vatican City. His death follows a recent battle with health issues earlier this year. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, shared the news, “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life as dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.”
As Pope Francis now rests peacefully, people around the world are mourning his loss and reflecting on his legacy — especially celebrities, former presidents, influential leaders, and others who are honoring him with heartfelt tributes online.
Former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama shared a tribute on Instagram, “Pope Francis was the rare leader who made us want to be better people. In his humility and his gestures at once simple and profound – embracing the sick, ministering to the homeless, washing the feet of young prisoners – he shook us out of our complacency and reminded us that we are all bound by moral obligations to God and one another.”
They added, “Today, Michelle and I mourn with everyone around the world – Catholic and non-Catholic alike – who drew strength and inspiration from the Pope’s example. May we continue to heed his call to “never remain on the sidelines of this march of living hope.”
Former President Joe Biden posted on social media, “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. 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.”
