HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — Earlier today, Governor Josh Shapiro ordered all United States and Commonwealth flags to fly at half-staff in honor of the passing of Pope Francis.

According to the Governor’s office, all United States and Commonwealth flags at Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are to fly at half staff.

Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on Monday morning after celebrating Easter Sunday.

Governor Shapiro says all flags should remain lowered to half-staff until sunset on the date of interment, which has yet to be released.

This morning, Governor Shapiro shared the following statement on X:

Lori and I join the Catholic community in Pennsylvania and around the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis.

I was honored to meet the Pope during his 2015 visit to Pennsylvania. A few years later when he powerfully spoke out in the wake of the Grand Jury report on child abuse in our Commonwealth, he was the first of his position to finally acknowledge the suffering of survivors who have too long been ignored. He leaves a legacy of being a fighter for the defenseless — a teaching we should all learn from. 

May his memory be a blessing.
Governor Josh Shapiro

All Pennsylvanians are invited to participate in this tribute.

President Donald Trump also ordered the flag of the United States to fly at half-staff at the White House, public buildings, military posts, embassies, naval vessels, and other facilities abroad.

abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available.