Africa: Emotion and tributes after the death of Pope Francis
A wave of sadness and gratitude
Pope Francis passed away this Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Vatican, at the age of 88. Since the announcement of his death, many tributes have poured in from the African continent, where the sovereign pontiff had made an impression with his openness, his closeness to the most vulnerable, and his message of peace.
In Abidjan, while many were celebrating the traditional “paquinou” with their families, the news surprised the faithful as they left Easter Mass.
“He left in glory,” said Lise, praising the Pope’s commitment to peace and inclusion.
Others, like Bernadette and Mathurin, highlighted his open stance, particularly on sensitive issues such as welcoming homosexuals into the Church.
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In the evening, a portrait of Pope Francis was installed in front of the hotel, and a tribute mass was held in the presence of the faithful as well as representatives of the Muslim community of Anono.
Father Sylvain Monespoir Ahouankon and Father Jean Alexis Mambé recalled the Pope’s commitment to the most vulnerable, praising “a pastoral approach of proximity.”
Kinshasa remembers his historic visit
In Kinshasa, where Easter Monday is not a public holiday, emotions were also running high.
The faithful gathered at Notre-Dame Cathedral, emotionally recalling the Pope’s visit in January 2023, a moment described as “historic.”
His Mass celebrated at Ndolo Airport brought together nearly a million people. Despite being unable to travel to the east of the country, Francis made a point of meeting with victims of the violence.
Faced with this loss, the planned festivities have been suspended. “We want to mourn the Pope in prayer,” said Father Camille Esika, rector of Kinshasa Cathedral, emphasizing the faith with which the community is welcoming this moment of mourning.
Conclusion
The death of Pope Francis has left a deep imprint on Africa, where his closeness, his commitment to the poor, and his message of openness will remain etched in memories.
Everywhere, prayers and tributes are being organized to salute the man who, for many, was an exceptional spiritual guide.
