Region's bishops pay tribute to 'humble and compassionate' pope

BISHOPS across the region have paid tribute to Pope Francis following his death, aged 88. News of the pope’s passing came hours after his final public appearance, where he delivered an Easter Sunday blessing to the thousands who had gathered at the Vatican's St Peter's Square.

- By NICOLE GOODWIN

Today, people in the North East have been sharing their own blessings for the pontiff, who has been described as “a great inspiration” and “compassionate and humble pastor who showed a deep compassion for all humanity”.

Bishop Stephen Wright, the Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle, said: “As a diocesan family we pray for Pope Francis who was called to the Lord on the morning of the 21st April.

“In this Easter Octave where every day is celebrated as Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over death. We pray Pope Francis now shares in that victory and enjoys eternal life.

“We give thanks for Pope Francis’ ministry as a Jesuit priest, bishop in Argentina and finally as the successor of St Peter. As pope he always looked at situations through the eyes of the poor following the example of his Patron, Saint Francis of Assisi.

“He was a joy to meet in person and an inspiration to so many, Catholics and non-Catholics alike. We commend Pope Francis to the Lord, eternal rest grant unto him O Lord. May he rest in peace.”

Bishop Wright will now host a requiem mass for Pope Francis at St Mary's Cathedral on Thursday, April 24, at 12.05pm. Everyone is welcome to join the service.

Bishop of Newcastle, the Right Reverend Helen-Ann Hartley, said: “Like so many others I received the news of the death of Pope Francis this morning with immense sadness.