Orbit Daily
Leaders shared condolence messages for the Christian world on the death of Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of Catholics and head of state of the Vatican.
France
“From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis wanted the Church to bring joy and hope to the poorest,” French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on his X account.
Macron hoped that this hope of the Pope would live on after his death and unite people among themselves and with nature.
Italy
In a written statement, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed that they were deeply saddened by the loss of Pope Francis and said, “I had the privilege of having his friendship, advice and teachings. He asked the world for courage to change course; to walk on a path that ‘nurtures, restores and protects, not destroys’.”
Germany
German President Frannk-Walter Steinmeier sent a condolence message to Giovanni Battista Cardinal Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, on the death of Pope Francis.
In his message, Steinmeier said, “On behalf of Germany, I express my sincere condolences to you, the members of the College of Cardinals and all members of the Catholic Church.”
Switzerland
Karin Keller-Sutter, President of the Swiss Confederation, said in a post on X that Franciscus was a great spiritual leader and a staunch defender of peace.
Pointing out that Franciscus’ human side is not only a consolation for Catholics, she said, “Pope Francis has passed away. His legacy will remain.”
Netherlands
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said on his social media account, “Pope Francis was a man among men in every respect. The Catholic world community says goodbye to a leader who recognized and articulated the needs of our time.”
Stating that they remember Pope Francis with respect, Schoof said, “Pope Francis has been an example for many people, including non-Catholics, with his deeply lived simplicity, servanthood and love of people.”
England
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that he mourned the Pope with millions of people around the world and said, “His leadership in a complex and challenging period for the world and the church, although courageous, was always shaped by a deep sense of humility.”
Emphasizing that Pope Francis was “the pope of the poor, the oppressed and the forgotten,” Starmer said he always maintained hope for a better world.
