The Passing of Pope Francis: Words from the Bishop of Lincoln

The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis has died at the age of 88. He has led the Catholic Church for 12 years.

The Diocese of Lincoln joins the outpouring of grief from across the world at his passing.

Pope Francis was a friend to the Anglican Church, as he was to the other denominations in the church. As a faithful servant of the Lord, he has been an encouraging exemplar of commitment and service.

Words from the Bishop of Lincoln

The Bishop of Lincoln, the Rt Revd Stephen Conway, has offered his own thoughts and prayers following the news:

“I am profoundly saddened to learn about Pope Francis’ death on Easter Monday. His proclamations of unity, justice and fairness for all humanity have held such profound significance for bringing about the Kingdom of God on earth. His outreach to the marginalised has been felt across the world, and holds a special place in my heart, as it will do for many.

“Today, I mourn with my Catholic brothers and sisters in Christ, thinking particularly of my Roman Catholic colleague Bishop Patrick and all the priests and people in the Catholic Diocese of Nottingham. I pray that Pope Francis will rest in peace and rise in glory.”

A Prayer for Pope Francis

Along with the rest of the Church of England, we pray for Pope Francis and give thanks for his life and ministry:

Father in heaven, we praise your name
for all who have finished this life loving and trusting you,
for the example of their lives,
the life and grace you gave them
and the peace in which they rest.
We praise you today for your servant Francis
and for all that you did through him.
Meet us in our sadness
and fill our hearts with praise and thanksgiving,
for the sake of our risen Lord, Jesus Christ.

Into your hands, O merciful Saviour,
we commend your servant Francis.
Acknowledge, we pray, a sheep of your own fold,
a lamb of your own flock,
a sinner of your own redeeming.
Enfold him in the arms of your mercy,
in the blessed rest of everlasting peace
and in the glorious company of the saints in light.

Amen.

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