WASHINGTON, DC – THE Federation’s Prime Minister, Dr. Terrance Drew, has joined global leaders in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who died this morning at the age of 88 following a prolonged illness.
The Pope had been ailing for some time after contracting pneumonia in both lungs. Though he had been recovering and was recently released from hospital following a period of stay, his death was confirmed by the Vatican at approximately 7:30 a.m. local time—overnight in St. Kitts.
The news comes as a shock to many, as Pope Francis had presided over the Easter Sunday service at the Vatican, though he appeared visibly unwell.
Since the Vatican’s announcement, tributes and messages of condolence have poured in from around the world, including from Dr. Drew, who reflected on the Pope’s life and legacy.
“Today, April 21st, we mourn the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died peacefully at the age of 88 on Easter Monday at his residence in the Vatican,” the Prime Minister wrote.
He noted that Pope Francis's election brought hope and pride to the Latin American and Caribbean regions, as the first Pope from Latin America.
“Throughout his papacy, he championed the cause of the poor, called for greater social justice, and worked tirelessly to foster peace and dialogue across faiths,” Dr Drew added.
The Pope’s passing comes just hours after he reportedly spoke with U.S. Vice President JD Vance regarding immigration and the treatment of migrants under the Trump administration.
Meanwhile, the Organization of American States (OAS) has also paid tribute, expressing deep sorrow at the loss of a figure who inspired with his compassion and moral clarity.
“This is an especially sad moment, marked by the pain of losing someone whose profound humanity served as a constant guide for us all—someone who taught us, led by example, and became an inescapable moral reference through his solidarity, sense of justice, compassion, and love for others, “ wrote the Secretary General wrote.
The European Commission also issued a statement honouring the late pontiff’s global influence.
“Today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis. He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and profound love for the less fortunate,” said the EC President in a social media post.
In Argentina, the Pope’s home country, the government has declared a week of national mourning as the world continues to reflect on the life and impact of one of the most beloved spiritual leaders of our time.
