The death of Pope Francis has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the globe, none more poignant than the heartfelt words of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, who remembered the late pontiff as “a true friend of Orthodoxy” and “a precious brother in Christ.”
In an official statement released on Easter Monday, Patriarch Bartholomew expressed both sorrow and reverence for the late Pope, who passed away at the age of 88. He described their relationship as one of “fraternal friendship and cooperation for the good of our Churches and for humanity,” dating back to Pope Francis’ ascension to the papal throne in 2013.
“Throughout his twelve-year papacy, he stood as a faithful companion and supporter of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, a genuine friend of Orthodoxy and of the least of the Lord’s brethren, for whom he often spoke, acted, and served—setting an example of true humility and brotherly love,” said Patriarch Bartholomew.
One of the defining moments in their shared ministry was their joint pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 2014, during which they prayed together at the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Patriarch Bartholomew recalled their discussions about celebrating the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, which they had hoped to commemorate together this year.
“He was enthusiastic about the idea,” said Bartholomew. “Although he was not fated to come, the Ecumenical Patriarchate will certainly not allow the occasion to pass unmarked.”
Patriarch Bartholomew concluded with a prayer for Pope Francis’ soul and a call for his successor to continue his legacy of compassion and unity among Christian Churches.
A global farewell to the ‘Pope of the Poor’
Around the world, grief has poured in from religious and political leaders, as well as from ordinary believers deeply moved by the life and mission of Jorge Mario Bergoglio—the first Latin American Pope and the first to take the name Francis.
From Gaza to Germany, and from the U.S. to Argentina, tributes have hailed his humility, dedication to the poor, and efforts to bridge divides. “He cared for our suffering nation,” said Faida Nabintu from war-torn Congo. “He was not just a Pope, but a light in dark places.”
In Buenos Aires, his birthplace, mourners expressed both sadness and gratitude. “He changed so much—he broke barriers. He was simply a great figure,” said one resident.
In South Korea, believers remembered his prayers following the 2014 ferry disaster, while in the Holy Land, pilgrims offered prayers near the Tomb of Christ, hoping the next Pope continues Francis’ ecumenical mission.
Funeral arrangements underway
The Vatican has announced that the funeral is likely to be held on Saturday, with Pope Francis’ body now lying in the chapel of Santa Marta, where he lived during his pontificate. Italy is expected to declare three days of national mourning.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced via Truth Social that he and Melania Trump would attend the funeral in Rome, underlining the Pope’s global diplomatic impact.
A legacy in numbers
12-year papacy: The second-longest in recent history.
First Pope from Latin America, and the first Jesuit to hold the office.
Over 47 international trips, visiting more than 65 countries, and covering over 465,000 km.
Canonised over 900 saints, including Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II.
Issued four major encyclicals, addressing faith, climate change (Laudato Si’, Laudate Deum), pandemic loneliness (Fratelli Tutti), and spiritual renewal (Dilexit Nos).
A simple burial, his humble testament
Pope Francis’s will requested a modest burial in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, under the floor with a single inscription: “Franciscus.” His final message:
“May the Lord reward all who loved me and prayed for me. I offered my final illness for peace in the world and brotherhood among peoples.”
The conclave of 135 cardinal electors—70 per cent appointed by Francis—will convene in the coming weeks to select his successor. Observers expect the next pontiff to continue his emphasis on synodality, justice, and care for the world’s most vulnerable.
