The A-list world has reacted with grief to news that Pope Francis died at around 7.30am today [21 April] after struggling with his health for several months
Celebrities worldwide are taking to social media to pay their respects to Pope Francis following his death.
The globe is mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who lost his battle with ill health at approximately 7:30 am today [21 April]. Just days prior on Easter Sunday, the leader of the Vatican church had appeared in St Paul’s Square and blessed thousands in a surprise visit via the Popemobile.
Actress Whoopi Goldberg was among the first to share a heartfelt tribute, posting an image of herself alongside the Pope. She stated: “He was the closest in a long time that seemed to remember that Christ’s love enveloped believer and none believer. He felt more like Pope John the 23rd who made belief real. Sail on Pope Frances with your love of humanity and laughter.”
Among those paying homage were actress Eva Longoria and renowned football manager Jose Mourinho, who both posted an image of the Pope with the following caption: “To be great, above all you need to know how to be small. Humility is the foundation to true greatness. Pope Francisco Hope is a light in the night.”, reports the Mirror.
Additionally, Spanish actor Antonio Banderas posted a poignant tribute, writing: “Pope Francisco has died – a man who, at the head of the Catholic Church, showed kindness, love, and mercy to the neediest people.”
The esteemed Richard Coles, a Church of England priest, offered his own heartfelt tribute, penning: “Into your hands, O merciful Saviour, we commend your servant Jorge, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. ‘Receive him into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and the glorious company of the saints in light. Amen. #PopeFrancis.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his deep sorrow upon hearing the news of Pope Francis’ passing, joining countless others worldwide in mourning the loss. He praised the Pope’s leadership during a “complex and challenging time for the world and the church”, characterising it as “often courageous” but always rooted in “from a place of deep humility”.
He stated: “His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of the people of the United Kingdom, I share my sincerest condolences to the whole Catholic Church.”
Mr Starmer hailed Pope Francis as a “pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten”, adding: “He was close to the realities of human fragility, meeting Christians around the world facing war, famine, persecution and poverty. Yet he never lost the faith-fuelled hope of a better world.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
