Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Catholic Church and the first pope from Latin America, passed away on Easter Sunday at the age of 88. His death has prompted a wave of tributes from leaders, religious figures, activists, and communities around the world – reflecting the deep and complex impact of his decade-long papacy.

Church bells rang in mourning from Paris to the Philippines. In Bulacan, the St. Bartholomew Parish rang its bell 88 times – one for each year of the pontiff’s life. Pope Francis, a Jesuit known for his humility, compassion, and advocacy for the poor, was celebrated for transforming how the world saw the Catholic Church and its place in the modern world.

Known affectionately as “The People’s Pope,” Francis prioritized the vulnerable, championed environmental stewardship, called for peace in global conflicts, and urged greater tolerance within the Church. His progressive tone and accessible style won admiration even beyond Catholic communities, though some criticized his reforms as either too cautious or too bold.

His final public appearance was just a day before his death, as he delivered his Easter blessing to thousands in St. Peter’s Square, despite visibly struggling with illness.

Reactions from World Leaders and Communities:
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who met Francis the day before his death, described him as “very ill, but still warm,” adding, “my heart goes out to all who loved him.”

Former U.S. President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social: “Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!”

King Charles III reflected on their recent private meeting, calling the pope a “profound advocate for the planet and humanity.”

President Emmanuel Macron of France called him a man of “humility” and praised his lifelong dedication to justice.

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni paid tribute to the pope’s personal guidance, calling him “a great shepherd.”

Argentina’s President Javier Milei, once a vocal critic, acknowledged the pope’s wisdom and kindness despite past disagreements.

Pope Francis’ beloved San Lorenzo soccer club in Argentina mourned the loss of its most famous fan, calling it a day of sorrow.

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te thanked Francis for his advocacy for peace and solidarity.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa praised his commitment to inclusion and environmental care.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine called the pope “a beacon of hope” who prayed for peace and unity.

President Vladimir Putin referred to him as a “defender of justice,” despite strained Vatican-Russia relations during the war in Ukraine.

Israeli and Palestinian leaders noted his advocacy for peace in the Middle East, with Israeli President Isaac Herzog calling him a man of “boundless compassion,” and the Palestine Red Crescent hailing his support for Palestinian rights.

The Dalai Lama honored him as someone who lived “a simple but meaningful life” dedicated to serving others.

Bishop Timothy Broglio of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops said Francis upheld the dignity of all people, from the unborn to the elderly.

Yet, not all reactions were without critique. Some advocacy groups, including those for women’s ordination and clergy abuse survivors, expressed disappointment that the pope did not go further in addressing systemic issues within the Church.

Despite differing opinions, one thing remains clear – Pope Francis reshaped the global image of the papacy through his compassion, accessibility, and calls for justice and mercy.