Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his condolences following the passing of Pope Francis through a brief yet heartfelt message on his social media platform, Truth Social. "Rest in peace, Pope Francis! May God bless him and all his loved ones!" Trump penned in a post that stood out for its respectful tone, a departure from his typically combative social media presence. This gesture has been interpreted as a sign of respect for the religious leader who played a significant role in the Catholic Church.
In addition to his message, Trump ordered that the U.S. flags be flown at half-staff as a mark of mourning for the deceased Argentine pontiff. "As a mark of respect to the memory of His Holiness Pope Francis, [...] I hereby direct that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, [...] until sunset on the day of interment," read the presidential proclamation. This directive extends to all federal, military, and diplomatic facilities within the United States and abroad, remaining in effect until the Pope's state funeral is conducted in the Vatican.
Just a day before his passing, Pope Francis received a visit from U.S. Vice President JD Vance, making him the last high-ranking international official to see the Pope alive. The meeting took place on Easter Sunday during a brief audience in which the visibly frail pontiff was still conscious. "I was glad to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. I will always remember him for the homily he delivered in the early days of COVID. It was truly beautiful. May God grant him rest," Vance shared on the social media platform X from New Delhi, where he is on an official visit.
Pope Francis passed away on Monday morning, April 21, at the age of 88, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City, after months of respiratory complications. According to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Pope's death occurred at 7:35 a.m. (Rome time) and was officially announced by the Holy See.
Pope Francis's Legacy and the Future of the Church
The Argentine pontiff, born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first Latin American and Jesuit to ascend to the papacy. His tenure was marked by efforts to create a more open Church, advocating for marginalized communities, promoting interfaith dialogue, environmental protection, and addressing sexual abuse within the institution. Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis became an influential figure not only for Catholics but also in global geopolitics. His papacy was characterized by personal austerity, a commitment to the poor, and reformist views on many of the Vatican's traditional structures.
In life, Pope Francis requested that his funeral be simple and faith-centered, with no extravagance. He updated the papal funeral liturgy protocol in 2024, seeking a discreet and spiritual ceremony. As of now, the Vatican has not disclosed specific details of the burial, but it is expected to follow the guidelines set by the Pope himself.
With his passing, a period of sede vacante begins, and the College of Cardinals will soon convene to elect his successor in a new conclave.
Questions About Pope Francis and His Legacy
What was significant about Pope Francis's papacy?
Pope Francis's papacy was notable for promoting a more open Church, advocating for marginalized groups, fostering interfaith dialogue, and addressing environmental issues and sexual abuse within the Church.
How did Donald Trump respond to Pope Francis's death?
Donald Trump responded to Pope Francis's death with a respectful message on Truth Social and ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff in mourning.
Who was the last U.S. official to meet Pope Francis before his passing?
U.S. Vice President JD Vance was the last high-ranking international official to meet Pope Francis, visiting him on Easter Sunday before his death.