Pope Francis

From methodist.org.uk

The Methodist Church in Britain receives with deep sadness the news of the death of His Holiness Pope Frances, and give thanks for his life and Christian witness.

Even to the final days of his long life, by his actions and his words, Pope Francis continue to set forth the gospel of God’s love in Christ. He spoke plainly of the hope that is to be found in Jesus Christ, showed profound compassion for those who are poor and marginalised, and gave particular emphasis to god’s demand for global justice. Through his papacy, Francis has fostered an openness to Christians sharing together in the Church’s life and mission, in ways which have broken new ground for the Catholic Church. In all these ways, for many Methodists, Pope Francis’s witness to the Christian faith holds a special resonance and his loss is deeply felt.

Methodists join in these days in prayer and sympathy with our Catholic sisters and brothers, who have lost their Holy Father, recognising the pain that this brings. Methodist will also offer prayers in the days ahead for the Catholic Church, as she navigates this period.

As God receives Pope Francis into God’s arms of love, we pray that he may rest in peace and rise in glory.