Pope Leo XIV Honors Pope Francis On First Death Anniversary

Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to Pope Francis on Tuesday on the first anniversary of his death , as the Vatican and Catholic communities worldwide marked the occasion with prayers, Masses, and remembrance events.

Speaking to reporters during his flight from Angola to Equatorial Guinea, Leo praised Francis for his lifelong emphasis on God’s mercy , human fraternity , and his constant closeness to the poor, sick, and marginalized. He said Francis’ “words and actions remain written in our hearts” and urged continued reflection on his pastoral legacy.

Leo prayed that Francis may continue to rest in divine mercy, recalling his homilies and gestures that reshaped the modern image of the papacy through compassion and simplicity.

Francis died on Easter Monday last year at age 88 after suffering a stroke, following recovery from severe pneumonia at the Vatican. His death led to the conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV , then Cardinal Robert Prevost, as his successor within weeks.

In Rome, the anniversary was marked with official Vatican ceremonies at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where Francis is buried. The programme included a Rosary, Mass, commemorative plaque unveiling, and global broadcast services . A Vatican documentary highlighting Francis’ life and legacy was also released, while Leo’s written message was read during the Mass.

Additional tributes came from Church leaders and world figures, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who praised Francis’ focus on peace and dignity. Leo also recalled the Holy Year of Mercy (2015) and Francis’ outreach to conflict zones and the poor.

Observers noted Francis’ influence on Church leadership, including his trust in Leo during his tenure in the Dicastery for Bishops , which shaped his rise within the Vatican hierarchy and eventual succession.