NJ Gov. Phil Murphy on Monday ordered U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff until sunset of the day of interment in recognition and mourning of His Holiness Pope Francis.
“Throughout his life, Pope Francis led with grace and humility," Murphy said. “His life was dedicated to uplifting the most vulnerable, setting an example of mercy and inclusivity. We join billions of people around the world in mourning his loss and praying for those who drew strength and comfort from his kindness.”
His Holiness Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025 at the age of 88.
Born to Mario Bergoglio and Regina (Sivori) Bergoglio, Pope Francis was ordained as a priest in 1969 after more than a decade of training with the Jesuit order. In 1998, Pope Francis became an Archbishop in Buenos Aires and was made a Cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001. Pope Francis was elected Pope on March 13, 2013, becoming the first Pope from the Americas. In 2015, Pope Francis became the first and only Pope to address a Joint Session of Congress, delivering a message of hope and healing.
During his papacy, Pope Francis was a leading advocate for international peace and human rights, including advocating for the rights of migrants, challenging the world to combat climate change, and supporting ending the death penalty and the criminalization of homosexuality.
