Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has paid tribute to his predecessor Pope Francis on the first anniversary of his death, remembering him as a shepherd who gave his life in service to others, especially the poor and vulnerable.
Speaking to journalists aboard the papal flight from Angola to Equatorial Guinea, Pope said Francis “gave so much to the Church through his life, his witness, his words, and his gestures,” highlighting his closeness to the poorest, the sick, children and the elderly.
The flight marked the final stage of Pope Leo’s Apostolic Journey to Africa and coincided with the anniversary of Pope Francis’ passing on April 21, 2025, an occasion being observed by Catholics around the world.
Pope Leo spoke with deep gratitude as he reflected on the legacy of the late Pope, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio. He recalled Francis’ constant call for universal fraternity and his efforts to promote respect and unity among all people.
He said Pope Francis encouraged the world to see one another as brothers and sisters and to live according to the values of the Gospel, especially through acts of compassion and solidarity.
Pope also highlighted Francis’ strong message of mercy, which was central to his pontificate from the very beginning. He recalled how Pope Francis spoke about God’s mercy during his first Angelus after his election in 2013 and continued to emphasize forgiveness and love throughout his ministry.
He noted that this message was shared with the whole Church in a special way during the Jubilee of Mercy, which invited believers to experience and extend God’s compassion.
Concluding his remarks, Pope Leo invited the faithful to pray that Pope Francis is enjoying the mercy of the Lord and to give thanks for what he described as a great gift to the Church and to the world.