Statement from Bishop John Arnold on death of Pope Francis

Source: Diocese of Salford

I can only imagine how many people are shocked and greatly saddened by the sudden death of Pope Francis. Although there have been various episodes of illness in recent times, he has always shown such determination to fulfil his commitments and return to his ministry. But this time, the final illness has been overwhelming and the Lord has called him to Himself. Let us pray that he will rest in peace and be rewarded for all that he has achieved for the Church, for us all, in his papal ministry.

Let us be grateful for the humble way in which he served the Church, putting aside the pomp and decoration of his office, to be among us. From the first days of his papacy, he has shown his love for people and his determination to be close to those who came to him.

Let us be grateful for his teaching and all that he has done to help the Church to be true to Gospel values in our ever-changing world.

Let us give thanks for his concern for the environment which has done so much to make people within the Church and beyond aware of the dangers of climate change and the need for urgent action. Let us be thankful for his example of welcome to all who might be even curious about a faith in Jesus Christ.

Every Pope must be a Pope for his time, and we give thanks for the achievements of Pope Francis' predecessors, but we recognise the courage and the dedication of Pope Francis in guiding us in unprecedented times where our world is seemingly overwhelmed by conflicts, migration, poverty and climate change.

He has died during the Octave of Easter, a time of great hope - in a Jubilee Year of Hope - and we must continue, aided by his prayers, to strengthen our commitment to build hope in our world for the dignity and well-being for all our brothers and sisters and our common home.

He has shown us the way and, by our listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit, in the Universal Synod, Pope Francis has ensured that we are the Body of Christ - the Church - for the times in which we live.

Rt Rev John Arnold

Bishop of Salford