Bishop Paul Connell says 'care, respect and compassion' were at heart of Pope Francis' pontificate

The Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnois Paul Connell has paid a warm tribute to Pope Francis following his death earlier today.

The pontiff (88), who was battling pneumonia and what were described by the Vatican as 'complex' health conditions died at 7.35am.

Pope Francis has been the leader of the Catholic Church since 2013, when he became the first South American born head of the Catholic Church.

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Bishop Connell said he was deeply saddened to hear of the death of their beloved Holy Father Pope Francis.

"We were praying for his full recovery from his recent very serious illness.

"Pope Francis has now been called home to the Father’s house.

"We come from God and we all return to God.

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"At this Easter time we are reminded yet again of the hope that Christ’ resurrection brings and we pray that the Lord will take Pope Francis home and reward him for the good that he did in this life," he added.

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Bishop Connell praised Pope Francis and stated he has made an immense contribution to the life of the Catholic Church and the wider world.

"He was keenly aware of the challenges faced by humanity and he constantly focused on these challenges during his pontificate, not least in the area of climate change.

"He constantly emphasised the need for all of us to take care of our planet, our common home.
Bishop Connell insisted "care, respect and compassion were at the heart of his pontificate and he had a special affinity with the poor and those with special needs" during his papacy.

"He challenged us as Christians to take responsibility for, and look after, the least in our societies, to maintain solidarity with one another and in particular to look after refugees fleeing from war and economic want.

"During his pontificate he launched the global compact on education, appealing for a more open and inclusive education for all our young people and calling for educators throughout the world to co-operate in providing an education that enables young people to rise above antagonism and division.

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Bishop Connell stated over the last few years in particular, Pope Francis has emphasised the synodal nature of the church.

"All of us who are baptised participate in the life of the church, listening to each other, exchanging views and making decisions.

"I ask everyone in our diocese to pray for Pope Francis, that his gentle soul will rest in peace.

"Mass will be celebrated in the Cathedral for Pope Francis – details will be finalised later.

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