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Pope Francis’ Cause of Death Revealed
World leaders are gathering to honor Pope Francis at his funeral.
Five days after the pontiff's death, President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and Prince William—on behalf of dad King Charles III—traveled to Italy for the service, which was also attended by former President Joe Biden and former First Lady Dr. Jill Biden.
The Vatican confirmed the Holy Father's passing on April 21, just one day after he delivered an Easter blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in an April 21 statement. "He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and the marginalized."
Following the announcement, Pope Francis was honored by many public figures, including the King of England, who said that he and wife Queen Camilla were "deeply saddened" by his passing.
"Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church," Charles noted, "and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry. His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith, and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others."
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The king, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024, concluded his message by reflecting on his recent meeting with Pope Francis.
"The Queen and I remember with particular affection our meetings with His Holiness over the years and we were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month," he noted. "We send our most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Church he served with such resolve and to the countless people around the world who, inspired by his life, will be mourning the devastating loss of this faithful follower of Jesus Christ."
Trump also addressed Pope Francis' passing in a post on his Truth Social platform. "May God Bless him," he wrote, "and all who loved him!"
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Meanwhile, Biden shared a tribute alongside a picture with Pope Francis.
"He was unlike any who came before him," the former president wrote on Instagram April 21. "Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him."
Keep reading to see all of the attendees at Pope Francis' funeral.
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Prince William
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Joe Biden & Dr. Jill BIden
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Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Alar Karis & King Felipe
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Emmanuel Macron & Brigitte Macron
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Prince William
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Leaders From Around the World
English (US)