Minister Niamh Smyth has paid tribute to Pope Francis , following the announcement earlier today of the pontiff’s passing.
Minister Smyth said, “Today the Irish and global Catholic Church mourns the early morning death of Pope Francis. His poignant passing a day after delivering his “urbi et orbi” blessing in St. Peter’s Square has a deep symbolism within the Easter season.”
“His papacy filled with insight and enlightenment progressed thinking and opinion within his conservative church on topical and controversial subjects. Within his encyclical Laudato Si he addressed the urgency of every person caring for our common home – planet earth. Our conversion to evaluate the methods of production and consumption was central in this message.”
“The humility, compassion and empathy he espoused in his daily life especially touched the needy and vulnerable. He gave understanding, support and respect to their plight and personal dignity. He directed change and focus and has left our church in a better place.”
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
