Pope will be remembered as a reformer - Bishop Router

Pope Francis will be remembered as a reformer and a true champion of the vulnerable, said Bishop Michael Router today.

The Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh, and a Cavan native, Bishop Michael Router was paying tribute to the pope who sadly died this morning age 88.

A book of condolence for people to record their sympathy on the pope's death was opened online.

"It is with deep sadness that I heard the news of the death of Pope Francis this morning," said Bishop Router. "He was a deeply spiritual and inspirational leader of the Church over the past 12 years, guiding the faithful with great humility, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the Gospel.

"From his earliest days as a priest and bishop, Pope Francis embodied the virtues of simplicity and service. He rejected the trappings of prestige reflecting the heart of a shepherd who walks closely with his flock."

Bishop Router noted that upon his election in 2013, the pope took the name Francis in honour of Saint Francis of Assisi, a saint known for his love of the poor and his devotion to peace and reconciliation. He said that like his namesake, Pope Francis embraced the mission of bringing healing to a Church facing profound challenges.

"He worked tirelessly to rebuild trust in the Church, addressing the painful legacy of abuse scandals and calling for unity among Catholics from diverse cultures and viewpoints.

"Pope Francis’ vision for the Church, rooted in synodality, reinvigorated the teachings of Vatican II, and called for a greater sense of communion, participation, and mission among the people of God. The fruits of this vision will serve as an enduring guide for the Church in the years to come."

Reformer

"Pope Francis will be remembered as a reformer who sought to simplify and clarify the Church’s teachings and structures so that they could speak authentically to all people living in a radically changed, and changing, world. A true champion of the vulnerable, Pope Francis’ voice was strong and prophetic on behalf of the poor, the displaced, and those suffering injustice.

"His encyclical Laudato si’ remains one of the most significant moral calls to action on the climate crisis, reminding the world of our shared responsibility to care for our common home. He also upheld the dignity and rights of indigenous peoples, advocating for their inclusion and recognition.

"As we mourn his passing, I give thanks for his life, his witness, and his legacy. May he rest in the peace of Christ, and may his example continue to inspire the Church to walk a compassionate path of faithfulness to the words and actions of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."