Washington DC [US]: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will travel to Rome to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.
“Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!” President Trump announced on Truth Social, his social media platform.
A World Mourns the Pontiff
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday after suffering a stroke followed by heart failure, according to the Vatican Press Office. The statement added that his declining health had been worsened by arterial hypertension, type II diabetes, and a previous episode of acute respiratory failure.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1969. He became the first Latin American Pope when he was elected on March 13, 2013, following Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation. He chose the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi.
India Declares State Mourning
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed deep sorrow over the Pope’s demise:
“Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world. From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope,” Modi posted on X.
As a tribute, the Government of India has declared a three-day State Mourning, to be observed nationwide on April 22, April 23, and the day of the funeral. An official notification was issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The Road Ahead
The Vatican has begun the nine-day Novendiale mourning period, a long-standing tradition. Following this, Cardinals from around the world will gather in Conclave to elect the next Vicar of Christ.
Earlier, President Trump paid tribute to the Pope’s legacy:
“Rest in Peace, Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!”