Global priests mourn ‘A pope of mercy’ in St. Peter’s Square

By CNA Staff

Vatican City, Apr 21, 2025 / 12:07 pm

Priests from around the world mourned the passing of Pope Francis at the Vatican on Monday while reflecting on the late pontiff’s life and historic papacy.

The pope passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time on Easter Monday, April 21, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. The 88-year-old pontiff led the Catholic Church for a little more than 12 years.

News of the pontiff’s death brought a worldwide response of mourning and remembrance of Francis, who had suffered a double bout of pneumonia and a lengthy hospital stay prior to his death.

‘His name is Francis’

Following the pope’s passing, countless Catholics in Rome on Monday made their way to the Vatican to pray and share memories and reflections of the pontiff.

Father Hans Kreuwels, a priest from the Netherlands visiting Rome with his brother, told CNA at St. Peter’s Square that the late pope’s papal name of Francis “[reminded] us of Francis of Assisi and what he did — he was looking to help the poor.”

“We are sad on one side because this very important pope died,” Kreuwels. “He passed away, but it’s on the day of Easter Monday. It’s the day of the Resurrection. And as we remember this pope, he’s a pope of mercy.”

As Father Kreuwels looked out at the “Angels Unaware” statue in St. Peter’s Square, he was reminded of Pope Francis’ visit to Lampedusa, where many refugees perished at sea. Crafted by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, the statue portrays 140 migrants from diverse backgrounds standing on a boat, urging us to open our hearts to those in need.

Reflecting on the significance of Easter, Father Kreuwels described it as a year of hope, emphasizing the belief in eternal life and the hope that Pope Francis has returned to his heavenly father. The priest expressed his wish to see the Holy Father in heaven again.

In a touching tribute, two sisters from Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity offered a rosary in memory of Pope Francis, highlighting his admiration for the order’s ministry. Their silent prayer in St. Peter’s Square symbolized the profound impact of the pontiff’s life.

‘He died with his boots on’

Meanwhile, Father Pablo Gefaell, a Spanish priest teaching canon law in Rome, stood in solemn prayer with a rosary in his hands, reflecting on Pope Francis’ recent presence in the square. He marveled at the Holy Father’s tireless dedication to his ministry, noting that he “died with his boots on.”

As the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to mourn the loss of Pope Francis, their prayers and reflections paid tribute to his enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to serving the marginalized.