Pope Leo honours Pope Francis on death anniversary
Angola, April 21: Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to Pope Francis on Tuesday on the first anniversary of his death, praising his lifelong message of God’s mercy and his strong focus on solidarity with the poor and vulnerable. Speaking to reporters aboard the papal plane traveling from Angola to Equatorial Guinea during his African tour, Leo said, “We thank the Lord for the great gift of the life of Francis to the church and the world.”
Francis died on Easter Monday last year at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke, following a hospital stay for double pneumonia. His final public appearance came during Easter celebrations in St. Peter’s Square, shortly before his death. His passing led to the conclave that later elected Leo as pope, weeks after Francis had reportedly helped shape the succession process by elevating key figures in the Church.
In his remarks, Leo recalled Francis’ teachings on human fraternity, mercy, and compassion, highlighting his consistent emphasis on care for the poor, elderly, sick, and marginalized. He also referenced Francis’ declaration of a special Holy Year in 2015 focused on mercy and forgiveness, as well as symbolic gestures such as opening the Holy Year in the Central African Republic. Leo noted that Francis’ message of closeness to suffering people remained central to his legacy.
Commemorations were also held in Rome, including a Mass at St. Mary Major Basilica, where Francis is buried, and the release of books reflecting on his life and influence.
One biography highlighted Francis’ close view of his successor, Pope Leo XIV—formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost—whom Francis once described as “a saint” for his ability to manage complex church challenges with calm and unity-building leadership. Francis had appointed Prevost to major roles, including head of the Dicastery for Bishops, strengthening his influence within the Vatican and positioning him as a potential future pope.
Prevost, a missionary who spent many years in Peru, was gradually promoted by Francis despite early differences between them. Over time, the two developed a close relationship, with Francis recognizing his administrative skill and pastoral experience. Analysts note that Francis’ appointments and trust in Prevost significantly contributed to his eventual election as pope, despite traditional reservations about an American pontiff. (AP)
