-
Pope Francis greets cardinals as he unexpectedly appears during the Palm Sunday Mass in Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican, April 13, 2025.
South Africans are pouring out their heartfelt condolences following the news of Pope Francis’ passing.
The first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church died at the age of 88 earlier today.
Francis, who was also the first non-European pontiff in nearly 1 300 years, spent his final days in service of the church.
Here is what some had to say about his passing.
“My mind is flowing with a lot of emotions right now, it just feels strange because I just got confirmed as a Catholic and now the pope has passed away. It’s such a mix of emotions, joy on my big step that I took this past weekend and sadness now because someone I looked up to is gone.”
“My heartfelt condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, may his legacy, compassion and religion live on. Rest in peace.”
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has conveyed its condolences to Catholics in South Africa on the death of the Pope.
The party says Pope Francis will be remembered for what it calls progressive leadership of the Church and compassion for those in need.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has also added her voice to those who have paid tribute to Pope Francis.
“Let me begin by also expressing my condolences to the Roman Catholic Church in South Africa and across the world for the passing of Pope Francis. Indeed, his was a life well lived, and we want to support all of those who are in mourning for his passing this morning,” says Creecy.
The DA offers condolences to Catholics across the globe, on the passing of the Holy Father, Pope Francis.
He’ll be remembered for his progressive leadership of the Church, compassion for those in need, and commitment to peace and tolerance for all. May he rest in eternal peace. pic.twitter.com/s2wtsgoMwf
— Democratic Alliance (@Our_DA) April 21, 2025
As the Catholic Church mourns the loss of the Holy Father, Cardinal Stephen Brislin, the Archbishop of the Diocese of Johannesburg speaks about the Pope’s work, his impact and what lies ahead for the Church.
