The World Mourns. Pope Francis Dies aged 88

All our cathedrals are open for prayers and to light a candle at this time.

A statement from the AEC:

We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of His Holiness, Pope Francis.

His whole life and ministry was centred on service, and we saw that in his work with the marginalised, the vulnerable, the displaced and the outsider and he was tireless in building friendships across th Christian denominations, healing divisions.

He knew the church was not perfect and he wanted to rebuild it in new ways.

His humility and compassion was boundless, and in that we rejoice and remember this man who walked in Jesus’ footsteps and encouraged us to do the same.

May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

The Very Revd Jo Kelly-Moore, chair of the Association of English Cathedrals said:

’Having yesterday proclaimed the truth that Christ is risen to thousands of people in St Peter’s Square, and around the world, it is somehow fitting that Pope Francis should die at Easter.  With our Roman Catholic brothers and sisters, for whom we pray at this time, we give thanks to God for Pope Francis’ faithful and sacrificial service, especially to those most in need, and we commend him to the resurrection life which he lived and proclaimed.  May he rest in peace in rise in glory.’

God of love and life,

we commend to your eternal keeping

your faithful servant Pope Francis.

We thank you for his faithful witness

to your resurrection life, and for his service of all people.

Inspired by him may we, your Easter people,

look always to the needs of others, especially the most vulnerable.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord,

and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May he rest in peace and rise in glory. 

Amen.