Describing him as “perhaps the most courageous voice among the spiritual leaders of the last 12 years in the defense of human dignity, peace, justice, freedom, equality, fraternity, dialogue between cultures and civilizations”, recalling the Pope’s unwavering solidarity with the poor and marginalised.

“He carried the humility of a parish priest into every audience, never allowing the weight of his robes to distance him from those he served,” the President observed.

The President praised the late pontiff not only for his moral clarity but also for his deep bond with Portugal, a relationship he described as “late but intense.” Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and first South American Pope, was elected in 2013 and led the Catholic Church through an era of profound global transformation.

“He was a voice for the poorest, most fragile, excluded and forgotten in a time of old and new masters, interests and selfishness,” said Rebelo de Sousa. “On behalf of all Portuguese people, believers and non-believers, I thank Francisco for his advocacy on behalf of those crushed by injustice, displaced by conflict, or silenced by oppression.”

The President concluded that “His presence was a beacon of hope to all who yearn for a world built on compassion and respect for every human life.”

Portugal visits

Pope Francis visited Portugal twice, first in 2017 for the centenary of Fátima, and again in 2023 for World Youth Day (WYD) in Lisbon. From these moments and other meetings, the President recalled the Pope’s humility, “simple, open, generous, understanding, supportive… full of life and shared joy.”

The Pope’s death follows a recent 38-day hospitalisation for bilateral pneumonia. His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday. In a symbolic reflection, Rebelo de Sousa noted, “His fight is not that of a creed, of a church, of a chosen nation… His fight is that of each and every one, today, tomorrow and always.”

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas also expressed deep sorrow, calling Francis a “Pope of hope” who “will forever remain in the heart of Lisbon.” Recalling the Pope’s presence during World Youth Day 2023, Moedas highlighted, “We were capable of doing what we never imagined, of receiving one and a half million people here in Lisbon, with the strength he brought us”.

To honour his legacy, Moedas announced that he will take the proposal to rename Parque Tejo (central to the WYD celebrations) to Parque Papa Francisco, to the upcoming council meeting. “Those six days did not leave Lisbon the same,” he said.

Portugal and the rest of the world prepare to bid farewell on Saturday, 26 April, morning at 10am local time, as Pope Francis is laid to rest in St. Peter’s Square. The coffin will then be transferred to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in central Rome, where the Pope will be buried, the Vatican announced.

His memory, both spiritual and human, leaves an indelible mark on the soul of Portugal—a presence that, in the words of its President, “was with us until the last day.”

Author

Following undertaking her university degree in English with American Literature in the UK, Cristina da Costa Brookes moved back to Portugal to pursue a career in Journalism, where she has worked at The Portugal News for 3 years. Cristina’s passion lies with Arts & Culture as well as sharing all important community-related news.

Cristina da Costa Brookes