Reactions to the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday quickly began pouring into social media from around the world.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, he became the world’s 266th pope, leader of more than 1 billion Catholics globally, in 2013.
Vice President J.D. Vance, who was at the Vatican Sunday, posted on X moments after the pope’s death was announced.
“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,” Vance posted. “May God rest his soul.”
Britain’s King Charles, in a statement posted to the royal family’s X account, said he and the queen were remembering their meetings with His Holiness with “particular affection.”
“His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others,” Charles stated. “Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.”“We send our most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Church he served with such resolve and to the countless people around the world who, inspired by his life, will be mourning the devastating loss of this faithful follower of Jesus Christ.”
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, noted the “millions of people around the world” who will mourn the pope’s passing.
“His life was devoted to God, to people, and to the Church,” Zelenskyy posted on X. “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!”
Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, praised the Pope for his support: “With the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, we are losing a great friend and supporter of the Olympic Movement. His support for the peace and solidarity mission of the Olympic Games and the many refugee initiatives of the IOC has been unwavering.”
Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said the pope inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate.”
“My thoughts are with all who feel this profound loss. May they find solace in the idea that Pope Francis’ legacy will continue to guide us all toward a more just, peaceful and compassionate world.”
Other tweets from international leaders:
Javier Milei, president of Argentina, where Pope Francis was born:
Emmanuel Macron, President of France
Friedrich Merz, German-chancellor-in-waiting
