Catholics across Geelong and the state have joined the world in mourning the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday.
The 88-year-old pontiff suffered a stroke that led to a coma and “irreversible” heart failure in Vatican City on April 21, according to his death certificate.
St Michael’s Parish Bell Park Parish priest Father Minh Tran said Pope Francis was a humble and courageous leader of the Catholic Church.
“As the community of St Michael’s Parish Bell Park, we are deeply saddened by the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis,” he said.
“He led us with love, humility, and unwavering faith, guiding us to serve and share the Gospel. A true disciple of Christ and messenger of peace, we trust his soul rests now with the Risen Lord.”
Premier Jacinta Allan said that Pope Francis “shared a message of peace, courage and humility” and offered her condolences to the Catholic communities across the state.
“Across Victoria, and around the world, Catholics are united as they mourn the death of His Holiness, Pope Francis, Bishop of Rome,” she said.
“Pope Francis was a leader of the church and a leader of the world. He was a tireless advocate for the poor (and) a relentless voice for the marginalised.
“He believed that caring for the sick was part of the Church’s essential mission and that compassion for the vulnerable was core to the human condition.”
Uniting Church in Australia president Reverand Charissa Suli said in a statement that Pope Francis “proclaimed a love that heals and restores”.
“His legacy will continue to inspire people of all faiths and none to embrace the call to peace, compassion, and justice,” she said.
“We join with people of faith around the world in giving thanks for his extraordinary witness, moral courage and lifelong commitment to the Gospel.
“Pope Francis spoke truth with both courage and kindness. He was not afraid to challenge the world’s indifference or to call the church itself to greater integrity and compassion.”
