The iconic Empire State Building in New York City will illuminate its facade in gold and white for an extended period, commencing Monday evening and continuing through Tuesday morning, as a poignant tribute to Pope Francis following his passing.
The building’s lights are scheduled to remain activated from 10:00 PM on Monday until 2:00 AM on Tuesday – a four-hour window dedicated to honoring the late pontiff’s life and lasting impact. This tradition of utilizing the building’s distinctive lighting system for significant events was outlined on the Empire State Building’s official website.
“For decades, the lights of the Empire State Building have captivated global attention, representing a cornerstone of New York City’s skyline since 1976,” the site stated. “We consistently employ this method to acknowledge important holidays, occasions, and organizations throughout the year.”
The building utilizes a cutting-edge LED lighting system, boasting over 16 million color variations – a feature implemented since 2012. This advanced technology allows for dynamic displays of light reflecting diverse celebrations and commemorations.
Pope Francis’s life concluded on Monday morning at the age of 88, marking the end of his twelve-year tenure as the 266th Pope and spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
“At precisely 7:35 AM Eastern Time, His Holiness, Pope Francis, returned to eternal rest,” announced Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican’s camerlengo, on Monday morning. “His entire existence was devoted to serving both God and His Church.”
Cardinal Farrell continued, “He instilled within us the values of Gospel faithfulness, courage, and universal love, particularly advocating for those most vulnerable and marginalized. With profound gratitude for his exemplary devotion as a disciple of Jesus Christ, we entrust his soul to the boundless mercy of the One God and the Holy Trinity.”
The news of Pope Francis’s death prompted expressions of sorrow from political and religious figures worldwide. “Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!” U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social.
Pope Francis’s health had been a concern in recent years; he was hospitalized in Rome for 38 days beginning February 14th to treat a severe respiratory illness – initially diagnosed as double pneumonia – which necessitated the removal of part of one lung during his youth. He was still undergoing treatment when he met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday at the Casa Santa Marta.
