On April 21, 2025, the world lost Pope Francis, the beloved leader of the Roman Catholic Church. He passed away at 88 after a long illness. Now, India’s President Droupadi Murmu is heading to Vatican City to honor him. At AMERICA NEWS WORLD (ANW), we bring you the latest on this historic event. Visit america112.com for more global news.
The Pope’s funeral is set for April 26, 2025, at Saint Peter’s Square. President Murmu will attend, representing India. She’ll lay a wreath at the Basilica of Saint Peter on April 25. Consequently, this two-day visit shows India’s respect for the Pope’s legacy. For instance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him a “beacon of compassion.”
President Droupadi Murmu. | Photo Credit: PTI
Why does this matter? Pope Francis was the first Latin American pontiff. He led the Church since 2013, touching millions with his humility. Therefore, his death has sparked global mourning. At AMERICA NEWS WORLD, we aim to share this story with readers of all ages, from India to the USA and beyond.
The news broke on April 24, when the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced Murmu’s trip. She’ll be joined by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and others. On April 26, she’ll attend the funeral Mass, where leaders like US President Donald Trump and UK’s Prince William will gather. Meanwhile, India has declared three days of mourning, with flags at half-mast on April 26.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at his Vatican residence. He had double pneumonia, which weakened him. Despite his health struggles, he remained a symbol of hope. For example, he championed the poor and pushed for peace. His connection with India was strong, as he promoted interfaith dialogue. Modi recalled their meetings, saying the Pope’s love for India will live on.
The funeral will be a grand event. Over 130 delegations, including 50 heads of state, will attend. The Vatican expects thousands to pay respects at Saint Peter’s Basilica. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re will lead the Mass. Afterward, the Pope’s body will move to St. Mary Major for burial. This ceremony, steeped in tradition, draws global attention.
India’s response has been heartfelt. On April 22, Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh signed a condolence book at the Apostolic Nunciature in New Delhi. The government’s mourning period reflects the Pope’s impact. For instance, two days of mourning were observed on April 22 and 23, with the third on funeral day. This shows India’s solidarity with Catholics worldwide.
Globally, leaders have shared their grief. Trump called the Pope a “spiritual giant.” French President Emmanuel Macron praised his humility. Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva noted his work for the marginalized. These tributes highlight the Pope’s universal appeal. At AMERICA NEWS WORLD, we’re covering every angle. Check america112.com for updates.
The Pope’s legacy is vast. He was the first non-European Pope in 1,300 years. He tackled issues like climate change and migration. In India, his interfaith efforts built bridges. For example, his 2019 message on peace resonated with India’s diverse communities. His death leaves a void, but his teachings endure.
What’s next? The Vatican will soon begin the conclave to choose a new Pope. This process, rooted in centuries-old tradition, fascinates the world. Meanwhile, Murmu’s presence at the funeral underscores India’s global role. Her visit, as noted on X, is a proud moment for Indians.
Public sentiment is strong. On Reddit, users call Francis a “people’s Pope.” Quora threads discuss his impact on India’s Catholics. Social media buzz, especially on X, highlights Murmu’s role. For example, @ians_india posted about her departure with Rijiju. These reactions show the story’s reach.
For a deeper look, here’s the data. Pope Francis’ papacy was historic:
Graph: Key Moments of Pope Francis’ Papacy (2013-2025)
(Interactive graph optimized for mobile and desktop)
- 2013: Elected as first Latin American Pope.
- 2015: Released encyclical on climate change, “Laudato Si’.”
- 2019: Visited Asia, strengthening interfaith ties.
- 2025: Passed away at 88, mourned globally.
(Source: Vatican Archives)
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Why Vatican City? It’s the heart of the Catholic Church, home to 1.4 billion followers. The funeral at Saint Peter’s Square will be a solemn yet unifying moment. Murmu’s attendance, alongside leaders like Spain’s King Felipe VI, signals global respect. The event will be live-streamed, reaching millions.
this story bridges faith and diplomacy. India’s Catholic community, about 20 million strong, feels a deep connection. Yet, the Pope’s message of love crossed religions. As one X user, @MathewLiz, noted, “Murmu’s visit honors all Indians.” At AMERICA NEWS WORLD, we make news clear for everyone, from teens to seniors.
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