In a shocking turn of events that reverberated across the globe, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has declared a seven-day national mourning following the death of Pope Francis. The news, which caught many by surprise, was confirmed by the Casa Civil’s communication office and will be formalized in an extraordinary edition of the Diário Oficial da União.

As the sun rose over Brasília, a somber atmosphere enveloped the city. The streets, usually bustling with life, seemed muted, as citizens grappled with the profound loss of a leader who championed love, tolerance, and solidarity. President Lula expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “Humanity loses a voice of respect and acceptance,” reflecting the sentiments of countless Brazilians who gathered in small groups, exchanging memories of the Pope’s impactful teachings.

Social media erupted with tributes from various Brazilian authorities, all echoing the same sentiment: the world has lost a beacon of hope. First Lady Janja Lula shared her heartfelt memories of their last encounter in February, recalling his poignant message of unity, urging all to gaze into each other’s eyes without prejudice. Minister of Finance Fernando Haddad emphasized the Pope’s legacy of promoting a more just and fraternal society, while other ministers, including Simone Tebet and Rui Costa, expressed their grief, highlighting the Pope’s unparalleled role in shaping the Catholic Church.

In a powerful statement, the Catholic Parliamentary Front in Brasília called for collective prayer, marking this day as one for reflection and reverence. The palpable sense of loss extended beyond political figures; everyday citizens also took to social media, sharing their own tributes, underscoring the Pope’s universal appeal and the deep void left in his absence.

As Brazil enters this period of mourning, the nation reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis—a legacy that transcended borders, inviting all to embrace compassion and understanding in an increasingly divided world.