Nation Mourns the Passing of Pope Francis at 88

WASHINGTON, D.C. (AP) — Flags across the United States and at American facilities worldwide will be flown at half-staff to honor the memory of His Holiness Pope Francis, as directed by President Donald Trump on April 21, 2025. The proclamation comes following the Vatican’s announcement of Pope Francis’ death at the age of 88, after a lengthy battle with double pneumonia.

In his proclamation, President Trump stated, “As a mark of respect for the memory of His Holiness Pope Francis, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds.” The flags are scheduled to remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of Pope Francis’ interment, which is yet to be determined.

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont echoed the President’s sentiment, directing state flags to also fly at half-staff where they will remain until the day of interment. “Leading by his words and his example, Pope Francis was one of the most inspiring popes and spiritual leaders of my lifetime,” Lamont said in a statement. “He brought people together, teaching mercy, compassion, and reconciliation. I join Catholics across the world in mourning his passing.”

Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, had been hospitalized for respiratory issues related to chronic lung disease. After being discharged from Gemelli hospital in February 2025, his health reportedly deteriorated, leading to the announcement of his passing on Easter Sunday.

In the wake of his death, global leaders offered condolences and shared memories of the late pontiff. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva remarked, “Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage by millions across the world.”

U.S. President Joe Biden stated, “Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time. He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church. He was the People’s Pope – a light of faith, hope, and love.”

World leaders highlighted Pope Francis’ commitment to peace and compassion during his pontificate. “He dedicated his life to uplifting the poor and calling for peace in a troubled world,” Israeli President Isaac Herzog noted.

Alfredo Castro, a parishioner from Connecticut, expressed his grief saying, “He taught us to care for one another and to reflect on our common humanity. We have lost a true shepherd today.”

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) expressed their sorrow, stating, “Pope Francis led with wisdom and with a heart open to all, especially the poor and the forgotten.”

Following the announcement, U.S. embassies, legations, and consular offices globally were also instructed to lower their flags in tribute to the pontiff. The Office of Governor Lamont will send notifications when flags should be restored to full-staff.

This is a developing story, and updates will follow as information becomes available.