The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88 from a stroke that led to cardiocirculatory collapse. His death, which occurred on Easter Monday, has prompted tributes from global leaders and faithful followers alike, recognizing his humility, compassion, and significant influence on the Catholic Church and beyond.

In Argentina, the Argentine Football Association postponed all fixtures to honor Pope Francis, a known football enthusiast and supporter of Buenos Aires’ San Lorenzo team. The association expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging not only his spiritual influence but also his passion for football and his connections with football legends like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona.

The Vatican has announced that the funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the Mass, with concelebration by top Catholic leaders from around the world. Prior to the funeral, Pope Francis’ body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the public to pay their respects.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos has also announced solemn events to mourn the Pope's passing, including a holy mass for the repose of his soul at the Holy Cross Cathedral. They have declared a nine-day mourning period, encouraging parishioners to participate in the mass, display photographs of Pope Francis with flowers, and include special prayers in all Masses.

Preparations for the funeral include several traditional rites. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, presided over the rite of ascertainment of death and placement of the Pope’s body in the coffin. The coffin will be carried in procession from Casa Santa Marta to St. Peter's Basilica, where it will lie in state for public viewing until the funeral. Following the funeral mass, the body will be taken to the Basilica of St. Mary Major for entombment.

Pope Francis had expressed his wish to be buried without elaborate decoration, marked only by the inscription “Franciscus.” An anonymous benefactor will cover the costs of the funeral. His death marks the end of a papacy that began in 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, and made history as the first Latin American and first Jesuit to be ordained pope.

Serie A, Italy’s top football division, has also rescheduled matches as the nation mourns, reflecting the deep cultural and religious significance of the papal passing in Italy. Multiple Serie A clubs joined in tribute, with AS Roma describing the late pope as “a moral reference of our time” whose humility and courage resonated globally.

Rev. Dr. Kwabena Opuni Frimpong, former General Secretary of the Christian Council, praised Pope Francis’ humility, simplicity, and commitment to social cohesion. He encouraged Christians across the world to emulate the Pope's life of service and humility, emphasizing his accessibility and the contrast to leaders who seek to dominate rather than serve.