Pope Francis dead: Tributes flood in from world leaders after pontiff's death

Pope Francis' death at the age of 88 on this Easter Monday has sparked mourning across the catholic world, as millions mark the death of the head of the church.

In a statement this morning, Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, confirmed: "At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church."

He added: "He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized.

"With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune.″

While world leaders are yet to comment on the major global news, British MPs have already emerged with breaking reactions.

US Vice President JD Vance, who met the pope just yesterday, said his heart "goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him".

"I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I'll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID. It was really quite beautiful. May God rest his soul."

Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair said Pope Francis was admired "for his humility, compassion and unwavering commitment to the Christian faith".

The former prime minister, who converted to Catholicism after leaving office, said: "Pope Francis was an extraordinary and devoted servant of the Catholic Church, admired both within and beyond it for his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the Christian faith and the service of all humanity-Christian and non-Christian alike. Cherie and I are deeply saddened by his passing. May he rest in peace."

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative Party leader, noted that Pope Francis's death on Easter Monday "feels especially poignant".

She said: "Pope Francis spent his final Easter yesterday bearing witness to the faith he devoted his life to - a quiet presence at a time when the world needed humility, courage, and conviction."

"His death on Easter Monday feels especially poignant. He reminded us that leadership isn't about power, but about service. When I met him in 2022, he spoke warmly of the UK and the values we share. In a world that too often turns away from faith, he stood firm. May he rest in peace."

Sir Ed Davey, the LibDem leader, described the Pope's death as a "profound loss to millions across the world".

Sir Ed continued: "He was a leader of compassion and courage, speaking up for those in need and calling for peace in a world too often divided."

"His influence reached far beyond the Church. He offered hope by reminding us of strength in kindness and faith.

"We should remember his example: stand up for what's right, care for others, and hold onto compassion and hope."

Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader, simply said: "My sympathies go out to all in the Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis. I met him and liked him very much."

John Swinney, SNP leader and First Minister of Scotland said: "It is with deep sadness I heard the news this morning of the death of Pope Francis. He was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation in our society. He brought comfort, assurance and hope to many. May he Rest in Peace."

Ursula von der Leyen, EU Commission President said on X: "Today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis. He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate. My thoughts are with all who feel this profound loss. May they find solace in the idea that Pope Francis' legacy will continue to guide us all toward a more just, peaceful and compassionate world."

The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, said Francis was "a listening Pope whose commitment to the principle and process of synodality will be a permanent legacy to the Roman Catholic Church and to all of us".

"I remember, in the brief times I spend with him, how this holy man of God was also very human. He was witty, lively, good to be with, and the warmth of his personality and interest in others shone out from him."

Liz Saville Roberts, Plaid Cymru's Westminster leader, said Pope Francis "led the followers of the Catholic Christian faith with humanity and dignity."

"Francis's voice for the poor and the oppressed across the world will be greatly missed - it is our duty to uphold his legacy."

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