In Rome, a woman shared with the EFE agency that she saw Francis on Easter Sunday, after he had been absent from the Holy Week rites due to health reasons. He appeared on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to deliver the Urbi et Orbi blessing and then toured the square in the popemobile, in what seems to be his last farewell to the faithful.
The White House paid tribute to Pope Francis with photos of President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania, as well as an image of Vice President J.D. with the pontiff on Easter Sunday. Donald Trump expressed his condolences for the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88, wishing him peace and blessings for himself and his family.
The news of the pontiff's passing surprised thousands of faithful who gathered in St. Peter's Square in the Vatican to express their sorrow. Many fondly remembered the homily that Francis delivered at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The global Christian community mourned the loss, highlighting his legacy of love and compassion.
Vice President Vance, who met with the pope on Easter Sunday, also expressed her condolences through social media, sharing her emotion for having been able to see him despite his frail health.
