Differing Tributes Paid Following Pope Francis' Demise: Varied Reactions from Right and Left
Farewell to Pope Francis: The Bell Tolls for a Man of the People
The iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris rang out in mourning, marking the passing of Pope Francis, who breathed his last on Monday, April 21, at the age of 88. Hailing from Latin America, Jorge Mario Bergoglio may not have shared warm ties with France, evident by his absenteeism at the grand reopening of the cathedral in December 2024. But his popularity, a phenomenon that swept across the globe since his election to the Vatican in 2013, following the abdication of Benedict XVI, seemed to overshadow any past frictions.
"From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis aimed to infuse the Church with joy and hope for the least fortunate," President Emmanuel Macron penned on the X network, extending his sympathies not just to Catholics, but the bereaved world at large.
His predecessors, François Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy, too, offered their heartfelt condolences, echoing the sentiments of the Argentine Jesuit's admirers worldwide.
The reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral was a significant event for France, symbolizing a cultural and spiritual resurgence following the devastating fire of 2019. The first public Mass held on December 8, 2024, drew leaders from across the globe, as the cathedral was finally restored to its former glory after five years of relentless efforts. Notre-Dame's relevance extended beyond its historic significance, assuming the role of a living place of worship rather than merely a tourist attraction, as highlighted by the local parishioners.
Amidst this resurgence, Pope Francis' conspicuous absence at the event remains a fascinating aspect. While the reasons behind his absence remain elusive, it's worth noting that he was an active participant during this period, undertaking initiatives such as opening the Holy Door at Rome’s Rebibbia prison church in December 2024. Despite his absence at the Notre-Dame reopening, his death in April 2025, which came months later, was met with deep grief and respect by the French government, who honored him as a tireless architect of peace. The logistics or undisclosed constraints that might have held him back from attending the event remain a mystery. Nevertheless, the legacy of Pope Francis lives on, leaving a beautiful tapestry of hope and unity woven across the globe.
- Despite his absence at the Notre-Dame reopening in December 2024, Pope Francis, who passed away in April 2025, was still deeply respected by the French government.
- The Pope's absence at the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2024, even though unexpected, was compensated by his active participation in other significant events, such as opening the Holy Door at Rome’s Rebibbia prison church in December of the same year.
- The sudden demise of Pope Francis, who was well-known for his enthusiasm and dedication, caused a symphony of sorrow around the world, touching the hearts of Catholics and non-Catholics alike.
- Beyond the global mourning, the French government decided to highlight the importance of Pope Francis' legacy by enshrining him as a prominent architect of peace—a testament to his tireless efforts during his lifetime.
