By President Anura Kumara Dissanayake leads national tribute as global leaders honour a pope of peace and compassion
President Dissanayake: “A Voice for Justice and Harmony”
Sri Lanka has joined the global community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88 on Easter Monday. In an official message of condolence, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake described the late Pope as a towering global figure who stood for peace, justice, and compassion.
“His unwavering commitment to peace, compassion and humanity has left an indelible mark on the world,” the President stated.
“May his legacy of compassion, justice and interfaith harmony continue to inspire generations to come.”
The Pope passed away at 07:35 a.m. local time in Vatican City, just one day after greeting thousands of worshippers in St. Peter’s Square with a heartfelt “Happy Easter.”
Cardinal Ranjith to Join Conclave in Rome
Sri Lanka’s own Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, Archbishop of Colombo, is expected to leave for the Vatican to participate in the papal conclave — the solemn and secretive process by which the next Pope will be elected. As a seasoned Vatican insider and respected theological voice, Cardinal Ranjith is not only eligible to vote but is also considered by some as a possible candidate for the papacy.
His participation places Sri Lanka at the heart of this historic moment in the Catholic Church.
A Pope Remembered Around the World
Leaders across the globe have paid tribute to Pope Francis, reflecting his profound influence that transcended religious and political boundaries.
The White House has paid tribute to the Pope in a post on X, external.
“Rest in Peace, Pope Francis,” the post says,
🇬🇧 UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he was “deeply saddened” by the Pope’s death and praised him as “a Pope for the poor, the downtrodden, and the forgotten.”
“His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy,” Starmer posted.
“His leadership in a complex and challenging time for the world and the Church was courageous, yet always came from a place of deep humility.”
🇷🇺 Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement released by the Kremlin, called Pope Francis “a defender of the highest values of humanism and justice.”
“He had the privilege of communicating with this outstanding man on many occasions,” the Kremlin said, adding that Putin “will forever retain the fondest memory of him.”
🇺🇦 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also honoured the late Pope, acknowledging his prayers for peace amid the ongoing war.
“He knew how to give hope, ease suffering through prayer, and foster unity,” Zelensky said.
“We grieve together with Catholics and all Christians who looked to Pope Francis for spiritual support. Eternal memory!”
Echoes of Sorrow from St. Peter’s Square
In the heart of the Vatican, the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica tolled solemnly to mark the Pope’s death, casting a hush over a crowd of tens of thousands. Pilgrims from every continent—India, South Africa, Denmark, and more—stood in silent tribute.
Many spoke of the late Pope’s efforts to make the Catholic Church more inclusive, compassionate, and globally relevant. The atmosphere, according to eyewitnesses, was “one of shock, silence, and shared sorrow.”
A Bond with Sri LankaPope Francis’s 2015 visit to Sri Lanka remains a cherished memory for many. He canonized Saint Joseph Vaz during a public Mass in Colombo and called for unity and healing in a nation emerging from decades of conflict.
His message of reconciliation and interfaith harmony strongly resonated with Sri Lanka’s multicultural population. It is a legacy that continues to inspire dialogue and peacebuilding efforts across the island.
Looking Ahead: The Church Awaits a New LeaderWith the Pope’s passing, the Catholic Church now turns to the age-old process of electing his successor. The College of Cardinals, including Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, will meet in conclave in the coming weeks to discern who will become the next spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics.
Until then, Sri Lanka and the world mourn a pontiff whose papacy was defined by humility, courage, and an unwavering commitment to serve the most vulnerable.
