The global community mourns the passing of Pope Francis, who died peacefully at his residence within the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta on Monday at the age of 88. Having led the Catholic Church since 2013, his influence and compassion resonated across continents.
A wave of heartfelt tributes has followed his death, reflecting the profound impact he had on countless individuals. Actress Whoopi Goldberg, among many others, offered a poignant remembrance shortly after the news broke. Goldberg, aged 69, shared an image from their meeting in 2023 via Instagram, accompanied by a deeply moving message.
“He represented a rare understanding, a genuine feeling that Christ’s love extended to everyone – believer and non-believer alike,” Goldberg stated in her post. “His spirit mirrored that of Pope John XXIII, who embodied faith with tangible action. May you journey onward, Pope Francis, filled with your devotion to humanity and your characteristic joy.”
Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the passing at 7:35 this morning. “The Bishop of Rome, Francis, has returned to the house of the Father,” he declared solemnly.
Farrell highlighted the Pope’s life dedicated to service and his teachings on living by Gospel values with courage and unwavering love, particularly for those most vulnerable. “He instilled within us a commitment to fidelity, underpinned by profound compassion and an embrace of universal love, especially towards the poor and marginalized,” Farrell emphasized.
For nearly twelve years, Pope Francis guided the Catholic Church. His final public appearance occurred just hours before his death – on Easter Sunday, April 20th, when he appeared from St. Peter’s Basilica to offer blessings to the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square following his release from hospital on March 23rd.
Following a period of convalescence after being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14th due to bronchitis, Pope Francis battled double pneumonia, significantly affecting both lungs. Despite initial improvements, his condition deteriorated sharply on February 28th due to an isolated bronchospasm – a constriction of the airways limiting oxygen intake – according to medical assessments.
The outpouring of respect extended beyond religious figures. French President Emmanuel Macron offered words of hope and unity: “From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis sought to ensure that the Church fostered joy and optimism for those living in poverty.” He further expressed a desire for his legacy to “unite people with one another and with nature,” adding, “May this hope continue to flourish beyond him. My wife and I send our deepest condolences to all Catholics and to the grieving world.”
US Vice President JD Vance also shared his sentiments, expressing sympathy for the millions of Christians worldwide who admired the Pope. Goldberg’s previous remarks on “The View” – describing him as “a human being as it turns out, which is what I really like, and he is doing his best to be a human for everybody” – underscored her appreciation for his genuine approach.
Notably, Goldberg’s connection with the Pope extended beyond their 2023 meeting; she joined nearly one hundred comedians from around the globe on a visit to Vatican City in June 2024, demonstrating continued admiration and respect for his leadership.