Statement Following the Death of Pope Francis
Statement following the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, aged 88.
The news this morning of the death of Pope Francis is a moment of tremendous sadness for millions of people across the world.
His deep integrity of life, heart for the vulnerable and marginalised, and remarkable embodied humility has enabled him to reach parts of the church and world that others have struggled to reach. His commitment to church reform has been inspiring, not least in his appointment of many cardinals from non-European countries creating a far more representative and global church.
He will be remembered for many things, but his commitment to evangelisation, the care of the poor and a church that is accessible and engaged with the needs of everyday life will be a lasting legacy.
May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
The Very Revd. Peter Howell-Jones
Dean of Blackburn
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