U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered that American flags be flown at half-mast following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88.
The solemn announcement was made just hours after the Pope’s passing was confirmed by the Vatican on April 21, 2025. President Trump shared his condolences in a heartfelt message posted on Truth Social, writing:
“Rest in Peace, Pope Francis! May God bless him and all who loved him!”
Shortly after, Trump signed an executive order mandating that all federal flags, including those at military posts, naval stations, and U.S. embassies worldwide, be lowered to half-staff until sunset on the day of Pope Francis’s interment.
“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,” Trump stated in the official proclamation.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis died peacefully at his residence in Casa Santa Marta. He had been in frail health in recent months and was reportedly surrounded by close aides and clergy at the time of his passing.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis made history in 2013 when he became the first Latin American and Jesuit pope. His papacy was marked by progressive reforms, a push for climate action, outreach to marginalized communities, and global efforts for interfaith dialogue.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, officially announced the Pope’s death via Vatican Media. Preparations for the funeral and the conclave to elect his successor are already underway, according to Vatican officials.
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