Caribbean leaders joined the global Catholic community in mourning Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. Widely respected as a spiritual shepherd and advocate for the poor, the late pontiff’s death marked a solemn close to Christianity’s holiest season.
Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Stuart Young, led regional tributes, describing Pope Francis as “a great and humble leader” whose compassion and progressive stance on global issues will be remembered for generations.
“Pope Francis focused on uplifting the poor and vulnerable and in the modern world was known for his desire for peace and the promotion of international diplomacy,” Young said in a statement. “He approached modern topics with an open mind and was not afraid to suggest a need for change… He was a known advocate for action on climate change and showed genuine concern with regard to the treatment of migrants.”
Young said he joins Catholics in praying that the next pope “will be chosen mindful of the world we now live in and its challenges that we face as a people.”
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness also expressed deep sorrow, reflecting on the Pope’s enduring influence.
“I am truly saddened, this morning, at news of the death of Pope Francis,” Holness said. “He dedicated his life to uplifting the poor and vulnerable… His quiet humility endeared millions to his style and to a deeper belief in God.”
Holness added that the Pope’s final public appearance on Resurrection Sunday “reflects the Pope’s dedication to duty and to the people.”
Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, confirmed that the Pope’s body will likely be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, April 23, for public veneration. Funeral arrangements are expected to be confirmed after the first meeting of the College of Cardinals.
Pope Francis had battled recurring respiratory issues for years. On February 14, he was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital following a severe bout of bronchitis. Four days later, doctors diagnosed bilateral pneumonia. After 38 days of treatment, he returned to the Vatican, where his condition gradually declined.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was elected in 2013 as the first Latin American and Jesuit pope. His papacy was marked by calls for social justice, environmental stewardship, and a Church that welcomes all — messages that resonated across the Caribbean and the Global South.
