Various celebrities have expressed their grief on social media following the sudden passing of the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, earlier today. The death of the Argentine pontiff was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the statement published by the Vatican.

Pope Francis became the leader of the Catholic Church back in March 2013 and has been a powerful figure around the world. He last made his appearance to the public at the Saint Peter?s Square during Easter Sunday last April 20.

Several celebrities such as Angeline Quinto, Janice De Belen, Matteo Guidicelli, Awra Briguela, Bianca Gonzalez-Intal, Karen Davila, Winwyn Marquez Kristoffer Martin, Hero Angeles, and Celine Lim, among others shared on their Instagram Stories various clips and photos of the late Pope with various grieving emojis.

Other personalities posted on their Instagram accounts to recall the life- changing experience they had with Pope Francis.

Rita Avila shared how she was given a letter of thanks by the Pope himself for sending him copies of her books.

?The letter that made me fall on my knees and weep. I couldn?t believe this humongous gift. God?s way of lifting me up from losing my son & from being laughed upon by malicious people,? Rita recalled.

Meanwhile, Richard Yap recalled the time he personally met Pope Francis and was able to hold his hand.

?May you rest in the bosom of our Lord, Pope Francis. What a blessing to have been able to meet you and be in awe of your spiritual presence,? he wrote.

Kapuso actress Ai-Ai Delas Alas took to her Instagram account to bid farewell to the late Pope who touched not only her life but that of many others.

?We bid farewell to our beloved Pope Francis, a beacon of faith, compassion, and humility. As a cherished papal awardee, his legacy of love and service will forever guide our hearts. Rest in God?s eternal peace, Holy Father,? she shared.

Journalist Jing Casta?eda then shared her experience covering the visit of Pope Francis in the Philippines back in 2015. As a journalist, she expressed how humbling it was seeing the millions of the faithful Catholics in the country. She saw the Pope once more during her visit to Italy back in 2024.

?Back in 2015, I had the incredible opportunity to cover Pope Francis? visit to the Philippines. Seeing the overwhelming faith and devotion of millions was truly humbling. It was more than just a news assignment?it was a deeply moving experience,? she wrote.

?Last year, my family and I were privileged to meet Pope Francis in Italy. To be in his presence is a gift and a reminder for us to remain humble and empathic towards others. I will forever be grateful for these experiences that have deepened my faith and strengthened my commitment to share love and light wherever I go,? she added.

?Pope Francis, your kindness, humility, and unwavering faith lit the way for so many. Rest in God?s eternal embrace,? she ended.

The Vatican leader was 88 years old and will be remembered by the Catholic Church who challenged the centuries-old teachings of the institution?? being a champion of the less and showing a more compassionate religious sector. (Via ABS-CBN)

Update news