(NewsNation) — President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to fly all flags in the United States at half-staff in honor of Pope Francis.
Trump announced the order at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll hours after Francis’ death Monday.
“He was a good man, worked hard. He loved the world, and it’s an honor to do that,” Trump told a crowd of participating children and families.
Francis, the 266th head of the Catholic Church, died Monday, nearly a month after ending a lengthy hospitalization for double pneumonia. He emerged from his convalescence multiple times last week, including for his final Easter celebration on Sunday.
Trump posted his condolences on social media early Monday morning.
Monday’s event, in which children roll eggs across the White House lawn, dates to 1878, during Rutherford B. Hayes’ presidency. This year, it falls on the 250th celebration of America’s founding.
The celebration also features an egg hunt, a station to write letters to soldiers, games, interactive experiences, painting and photo opportunities, a cookie decorating station and more.
American farmers donated eggs for the event, according to a White House news release.
Live performances include the U.S. Marine, Navy, Army and Air Force bands, along with Go with YoYo, a famed children’s performer.
An online lottery was held to select the participating children and families.