On the evening of Monday, April 21, the Vatican announced the passing of Pope Francis, 88, at his Santa Marta residence.
Community leaders have expressed their sadness at the passing of the religious figure, with Kyabram Catholic Parish and St Augustine’s Church priest, Fr Uday Marneni, releasing a statement to the Free Press.
“St Augustine’s Parish mourns the passing of Pope Francis. He was a simple and humble man who cared for the poor, the sick and the vulnerable of our society,” he said.
“He was a well-respected leader whose emphasis on the mercy and compassion of God, and on the Church’s vocation, (was) a sign of those qualities.
“His famous description of the Church as a field hospital where wounds could be healed and hearts could be warmed was a call to a renewal of the Church’s life and mission.
“He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.“
At the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Bendigo, the bells rung for 10 minutes following news of the Pope’s passing, and a photo of Pope Francis has been put display in front of the altar.
Many political leaders in Australia paused their federal election campaigns the following day to pay their respect.
In a statement on social media, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese mourned Pope Francis.
“For Australian Catholics, he was a devoted champion and loving father,” he said.
“Pope Francis’ love for humanity was powerful and profound. The memory and example of his compassion will long endure.”
The Roman Catholic Church has entered nine days of mourning following his passing.
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