Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church across the world died on Easter Monday, at the age of 88.
The Bishop of Gloucester, the Rt Revd Rachel Treweek and the Bishop of Tewkesbury, the Rt Revd Robert Springett said,
“It is with profound sadness that we heard of the death of Pope Francis today, and we particularly pray for our Roman Catholic brothers and sisters across this diocese. Pope Francis’ focus on the poor, the marginalised and the voiceless reflected his deep love of God and his faith in Jesus Christ. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.”
The Archbishop of York released a statement which you can read here.
A prayer on the death of Pope Francis
Father in heaven, we praise your name
for all who have finished this life loving and trusting you,
for the example of their lives,
the life and grace you gave them
and the peace in which they rest.
We praise you today for your servant Francis and for all that you did through him.
Meet us in our sadness and fill our hearts with praise and thanksgiving,
for the sake of our risen Lord, Jesus Christ
Into your hands, O merciful Saviour,
we commend your servant Francis.
Acknowledge, we pray, a sheep of your own fold,
a lamb of your own flock,
a sinner of your own redeeming.
Enfold him in the arms of your mercy,
in the blessed rest of everlasting peace
and in the glorious company of the saints in light.
Amen.
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