Bishop of Dover Rt Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin Image: Diocese of Canterbury
The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis died at approximately 07:30am local time today 21 April 2025, at the age of 88.
A tribute has been offered by the Anglican Bishop of Dover, following the passing of Pope Francis.
The Statement from the Bishop of Dover Rt Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin on the passing of Pope Francis expressed her sorrow.
She wrote:
I’m deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis. Pope Francis was counter-cultural, travelling on public transport and in a small ordinary car after his appointment; clearly uncomfortable to embrace the trappings of Vatican life.
Pope Francis brought hope, not just to millions of Catholics but to so many around the world. He was not afraid to meet with people from all kinds of backgrounds even if such meetings brought about controversy. His commitment to living faithfully as a disciple of Christ was echoed in his work around unity, peace and social justice.
We mourn the loss of a spiritual leader, who for many brought light to the darkest corners of our world. May his soul rest in peace and rise in glory.
Bishop of Dover Rt Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin