Tributes have been paid in Renfrewshire following Pope Francis’ passing at the age of 88.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected when he was a Cardinal to lead the Catholic Church in March 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI stood down.
His health had been poor after he had been hospitalised earlier this year for bronchitis and pneumonia.
Pope Francis died less than 24 hours after addressing worshippers in St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday. He passed away at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta on Monday morning.
Bishop John Keenan, who has served the Diocese of Paisley since 2014, released a statement on Facebook this morning. It read:
“With deep sorrow we heard of the death of Pope Francis this morning.
“We thank God for his tireless service to the Church to the end, dedicated to the Gospel and reaching out to bring God’s universal love to everyone especially all those on the margins, offering them reason for hope.
“We invite you to pray for the happy repose of the soul of Pope Francis. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.”
Bishop Keenan will hold a Mass in St Mirin’s Cathedral over two days. The services will be held on Tuesday, 22nd April at 1pm and on Friday, 25th April at 3pm.
Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron shared: “With deep sorrow, I join the people of Renfrewshire and the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His legacy of compassion, humility and unity will not be forgotten by those who loved him.
“The flags at Renfrewshire House will fly at half-mast tomorrow as a mark of respect.
“Requiescat in pace.”
Scottish Conservative leader, Russell Findlay MSP, said: “Sad to hear of the passing of Pope Francis. Our thoughts are with the Catholic community in Scotland and around the world.”
Labour MSP Neil Bibby said: “Pope Francis was much loved. A humble man who led with compassion, cared deeply about the poor, and welcomed the marginalised.
“He will be missed. Rest in peace.”
Ross Greer, West of Scotland Green MSP, said: “My thoughts and prayers are with the Catholic community across Scotland and the world today.
“Pope Francis’ commitment to Palestine until his very last day should inspire all those striving for peace and justice.”
Jamie Greene, Liberal Democrat MSP for West of Scotland, said: “Sad news on an Easter Monday, many people of many faiths the world over will be mourning his passing.”
Labour’s Paul O’Kane also paid a trubuite, he said: “Pope Francis spent his life and pontificate opening doors of compassion, mercy and hope; of welcoming the stranger and reaching out to the marginalised in the church and world.
“He prioritised the dignity of each human being on the journey.
“Eternal rest grant unto him o Lord.”
Lead Photo: Pope Francis