ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Gov. Wes Moore announced today that both the U.S. and Maryland state flags will be lowered to half-staff immediately in honor of the life and service of His Holiness Pope Francis. The flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of interment, which has yet to be determined.
“Pope Francis – the People’s Pope – led with humility, compassion and love for all people,” said Moore. “His strength in spiritual leadership will live on in the hearts of the faithful. Dawn and I join Catholics across Maryland alongside the broader faith community, our country and those all over the world who mourn his passing and honor with deep solemnity his legacy of service.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His papacy, which began in March 2013, was marked by a commitment to social justice, humility and outreach to marginalized communities.
In September 2015, Pope Francis made his first and only visit to the United States, which included a significant stop in Washington, D.C. During this visit, he became the first pope to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress, delivering a message that emphasized compassion, justice and the importance of caring for the vulnerable. He also visited the White House, met with President Barack Obama and celebrated Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
Many residents from Southern Maryland traveled to the capital region and to Joint Base Andrews in Prince George’s County to witness his historic visit.
Pope Francis’ legacy includes a focus on environmental stewardship, interfaith dialogue and advocating for the poor and disenfranchised. His teachings and actions have left a lasting impact on the global community and the Catholic Church.
The Vatican has announced that the funeral Mass for Pope Francis will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside. Following the Mass, the late pope’s body will be taken into St. Peter’s Basilica and then to the Basilica of St. Mary Major for entombment, honoring his request to be buried near the icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani.
For official flag status updates in Maryland, visit the Maryland Secretary of State’s website.
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