Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, calling him a global symbol of humility, spiritual courage, and inclusive service. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi said,
“Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world. From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope.
I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace.”
Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the… pic.twitter.com/QKod5yTXrB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2025
Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and its first Latin American pontiff, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The announcement of his death came at 9:45 AM from Casa Santa Marta by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber.
Pope Francis passes away: When PM Narendra Modi met the spiritual leader Pope Francis
The cause of death was complications from bilateral pneumonia, following weeks of deteriorating health. The Pope was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome on February 14, 2025, after suffering from bronchitis. Just days later, he was diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs, a condition that worsened despite aggressive treatment.
After 38 days in the hospital, he was discharged to continue recovery at his Vatican residence. Unfortunately, his condition did not improve significantly, and he passed away at 7:35 AM on April 21.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis had a history of lung-related illnesses, including a partial lung removal in his youth following a severe infection in Argentina. His recurring respiratory challenges had led to cancelled visits, including a 2023 trip to the UAE.
The late Pope had approved a revised version of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis in April 2024 to guide his funeral rites. Staying true to his life of simplicity, the new protocol requires confirmation of death in the chapel and immediate placement of the body in the coffin, underscoring his spiritual humility even in death.
