Pope Leo XIV has paid tribute to Pope Francis on Tuesday on the first anniversary of his death. Leo recalled the preaching of Francis about God’s mercy and his gestures of solidarity with poor people.

One year ago today, Pope Francis died at 7:35 a.m., April 21, 2025. It came the day after Easter, when – barely able to raise his hands – he gave his blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world).