Archbishop Thompson Honors Pope Francis After His Death at 88

INDIANAPOLIS — Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, died Sunday at 88, the Vatican confirmed Monday.

Just a day before his death, Pope Francis made a public appearance at St. Peter’s Basilica, blessing thousands during Easter Mass while waving from his wheelchair.

Archbishop Charles C. Thompson of Indianapolis praised the pope as “a son of the Church,” emphasizing his commitment to “Christ-centered dialogue” and his care for the marginalized. “He was a good and faithful servant,” Thompson said. “May he rest in eternal peace.”

Pope Francis often described himself as “a son of the Church.” His long journey, first as a Jesuit priest in Argentina, then as bishop and eventually as the Bishop of Rome, was marked by holiness, missionary zeal, and an unwavering trust in the Holy Spirit. As pope, he led the Church with a focus on inclusivity, urging pastors to accompany their communities, especially the poor and marginalized, in a world deeply in need of Christ’s peace and love.

Pope Francis, who led the Church for 12 years, also faced health struggles throughout his papacy, but remained steadfast in his dedication to reform. His final public message called for peace in Ukraine and Gaza, reflecting his ongoing concern for global conflict and suffering.

Leaders worldwide expressed their condolences. Former Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden both honored the pope’s legacy. Trump shared his sympathies on social media, writing, “Rest in Peace Pope Francis. May God bless him and all who loved him.” Biden praised Pope Francis for being “a loving pastor and challenging teacher who reached out to different faiths” and made all people feel “welcome and seen by the Church.”