THE VATICAN, ROME (Michigan News Source) – Pope Francis has died at the age of 88.
Bells tolled in church towers across the world after the announcement on Monday morning. Pope Francis was the first Latin American pontiff. He recently battled double pneumonia and a complex respiratory infection.
The Pope met with Vice President JD Vance over the Easter weekend.
I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.
I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days…
— JD Vance (@JDVance) April 21, 2025
In Michigan, the Diocese of Grand Rapids issued a statement, saying “it is fitting that his passing from this life occurred in the Jubilee Year of Hope, which he inaugurated. For our hope in eternal life springs from our faith in the risen Lord.”
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The Archdiocese of Detroit called Pope Francis “a humble shepherd.”
The Diocese of Lansing joined with mourners worldwide as well.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement as well. “Pope Francis was an inspiration to countless Michiganders and people around the world. He led with grace, compassion, and humility. He fought against poverty and called for action on climate change, economic injustice, and peace. He reminded us that the true measure of one’s devotion to God comes in one’s devotion to others. Pope Francis was a leader who called on all of us to live up to our better selves. As we celebrate his life and mourn his death, let us live by the values he believed in—love, mercy, and compassion for all,” Whitmer said.
According to the Michigan Catholic Conference, there are roughly 1.8 million Catholics in Michigan.
