The passing of Pope Francis sparked immediate reactions from world leaders, with former President Barack Obama among the first to share his thoughts on the pontiff's legacy.
According to Breitbart, the Vatican announced early Monday that Pope Francis, who served as the head of the Catholic Church since 2013, died in Rome at the age of 88.
The Argentine-born pontiff's death comes after years of declining health, with his final public appearance occurring during a brief meeting with Vice President JD Vance and his family on Sunday evening. The pope had already delegated the celebration of mass to another cardinal due to his illness before the meeting.
Barack Obama, accompanied by his wife Michelle, expressed profound sorrow over the pope's passing through social media. The former president emphasized Francis's unique ability to inspire better behavior through his modest demeanor and meaningful actions.
Obama's tribute highlighted the pope's hands-on approach to ministry, specifically mentioning his work with the sick, homeless, and imprisoned individuals. The former president noted how these actions challenged people's complacency and reinforced moral obligations.
President Donald Trump also offered his condolences through social media, sharing a brief but heartfelt message wishing peace for the departed pontiff and comfort for his followers.
The Vatican's announcement has set in motion the traditional process for selecting a new pope. The procedure will bring together 137 cardinal electors in the historic Sistine Chapel.
The selection process, known as a papal conclave, derives its name from the Latin phrase "cum clave," meaning "with a key." This centuries-old tradition has evolved significantly since the early church, with current procedures being formally established in the early 20th century.
The cardinals will conduct their deliberations surrounded by Michelangelo's renowned frescoes, following protocols that have been refined over generations of papal transitions.
Former President Obama offered these thoughts on Pope Francis's impact:
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.
The pope's tenure was marked by his Argentine heritage, making history as the first pope from Latin America. His appointment followed the unexpected resignation of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013.
Throughout his papacy, Francis maintained a distinctive style that emphasized personal connection and humanitarian concerns. His approach resonated with both Catholic faithful and those outside the faith. His influence extended beyond religious matters, often addressing global issues and fostering interfaith dialogue during his 12-year papacy.
Pope Francis, who died at age 88 in Rome, served as the head of the Catholic Church for 12 years after becoming the first Latin American pope in 2013. His death on Monday followed years of declining health, with his final public appearance being a brief meeting with Vice President JD Vance and his family. The Vatican will soon convene a papal conclave where 137 cardinal electors will gather in the Sistine Chapel to choose his successor, following centuries-old traditions that will determine the future leadership of the Catholic Church.
