Pope Francis: Faithfuls Worldwide Share Heartfelt Tributes to Pontiff
- Pope Francis has died at 88, a day after his Easter Sunday appearance, where he blessed faithfuls
- Following his sudden demise, faithfuls globally expressed grief for the beloved Catholic leader
- Some have remembered the departed pontiff for his humility, reform efforts, and compassion
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The world is in mourning following the sudden and unexpected death of Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of more than a billion Catholics across the globe.
Source: Twitter
His passing comes less than 24 hours after his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20, where he addressed faithful from St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.
Despite concerns over his health, Pope Francis appeared in a wheelchair, smiling and waving to the thousands gathered at St Peter’s Square.
In his brief yet touching message, he greeted the crowd with his characteristic warmth: “Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter.”
Source: Twitter
During the annual Urbi et Orbi blessing—a traditional Easter message delivered to the city and the world—an aide read the address on the Pope's behalf, while he watched from the seated position.
His frailty was evident, but his presence still brought immense comfort to those in attendance.
After the blessing, Pope Francis was driven slowly around the square in the Popemobile, receiving a heartfelt reception. The procession paused several times as babies were handed over to him for blessings—a touching final gesture from a man who had always shown deep compassion for children and the vulnerable.
His sudden death, announced by Vatican News just hours after his last public appearance, has left millions of believers in shock and sorrow.
Social media platforms were flooded with emotional tributes from people across the world—leaders, religious institutions, and ordinary faithful who admired his humility and progressive spirit.
TUKO.co.ke has gathered some of the emotional tributes shared online:
"We are heartbroken. The Pope stood for peace, unity, and care for the poor. The world has lost a true shepherd," wrote one user on X.
"He gave us hope. Even in his last moments, he smiled at us. Rest in peace, Holy Father," shared another.
"I still can't believe he's gone. Just yesterday we saw him bless children with so much love."
@shauvikkumar:
"Pope Francis will be remembered for his efforts to reform the Church and his compassion for the marginalised. May he rest in peace."
@TKbytesback:
"A true saint. And what incredible leadership and service right to the end. Pope Francis is a man more to be prayed to than for .. rest in peace your burden is lifted."
@Grraarrgh:
"I am not religious but this man was one of the few public figures that seemed to actually live by the teachings of what he believed. Sadly a rare thing these days. He was not perfect of course but worthy of much respect."
Kenyan leaders mourn Pope Francis
In other news, President William Ruto joined the Catholic Church and the global Christian community in mourning Pope Francis, describing him as a beacon of hope whose strong ethical and moral convictions inspired millions worldwide.
Other leaders echoed similar sentiments, honouring the pontiff's legacy of compassion, humility, and service.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
