Political figures worldwide have come together to celebrate the legacy of Pope Francis following his death, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to the marginalized and his calls for social justice.
Global Leaders Honor Pope Francis for His Dedication to the Marginalized
Global Leaders Honor Pope Francis for His Dedication to the Marginalized
World leaders express their sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis and celebrate his unwavering support for the less fortunate.
April 21, 2025, 5:48 a.m. ET
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy led an outpouring of tributes to Pope Francis from global leaders on Monday, hailing him as “a great man and a great pastor.” Many highlighted his commitment to advocating for the poor and marginalized. “I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his advice, and his teachings, which never wavered even during trials,” stated Ms. Meloni, who had visited the pontiff while he was hospitalized in February. In her social media tribute, she noted the pope’s call for a pursuit of peace, common good, and social equity, affirming that his teachings will endure.
French President Emmanuel Macron remarked that Pope Francis had spread joy and hope among the world's poor. From his native Buenos Aires to Rome, the pope aimed for the Church to serve as a beacon of optimism for the less fortunate. Mr. Macron expressed solidarity with grieving Catholics globally. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen took to social media to highlight how the pope's humility and love touched millions, far surpassing the boundaries of the Catholic Church.
Kaja Kallas, the EU's chief diplomat, noted her recent meeting with the pontiff, praising his unwavering leadership in advocating for the vulnerable and upholding human dignity.
Matthew Mpoke Bigg is a London-based reporter on the Live team at The Times, covering ongoing news developments related to the Roman Catholic Church.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy led an outpouring of tributes to Pope Francis from global leaders on Monday, hailing him as “a great man and a great pastor.” Many highlighted his commitment to advocating for the poor and marginalized. “I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his advice, and his teachings, which never wavered even during trials,” stated Ms. Meloni, who had visited the pontiff while he was hospitalized in February. In her social media tribute, she noted the pope’s call for a pursuit of peace, common good, and social equity, affirming that his teachings will endure.
French President Emmanuel Macron remarked that Pope Francis had spread joy and hope among the world's poor. From his native Buenos Aires to Rome, the pope aimed for the Church to serve as a beacon of optimism for the less fortunate. Mr. Macron expressed solidarity with grieving Catholics globally. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen took to social media to highlight how the pope's humility and love touched millions, far surpassing the boundaries of the Catholic Church.
Kaja Kallas, the EU's chief diplomat, noted her recent meeting with the pontiff, praising his unwavering leadership in advocating for the vulnerable and upholding human dignity.
Matthew Mpoke Bigg is a London-based reporter on the Live team at The Times, covering ongoing news developments related to the Roman Catholic Church.
