In accordance with a directive of the President, Governor Janet Mills has ordered that the United States and State of Maine flags be lowered to half-staff statewide in honor of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away this morning at the age of 88. Per the President's proclamation, the flags are to be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of internment.
Governor Mills previously issued the following statement mourning the death of Pope Francis:
Governor Janet Mills released the following statement upon the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis:
"Pope Francis inspired millions of people -- of all faiths -- through his humble leadership and his courageous calls for world leaders to uplift the poor, embrace peace, and take action to care for the planet we all share. In Maine, we will never forget his blessings of peace and strength for the people of Lewiston in the wake of the October 2023 tragedy. On behalf of the people of Maine, I extend our deepest condolences to Catholics across the world."