Pope Francis will be remembered not only as the Bishop of Rome, but as a shepherd who led with humility, compassion, and profound simplicity. He chose to live modestly, to speak plainly, and to place the poor and the marginalised at the heart of his ministry. His deep concern for creation, his commitment to dialogue, and his gentle witness to the love of Christ touched lives far beyond the bounds of his own communion, to people of all faiths, and none.

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is a place of welcome, friendship, openness, acceptance, tolerance, and inclusivity, a place to which people of all faiths from across the globe, many of them Roman Catholics, come to worship or visit.

In this time of mourning, we stand in prayerful solidarity with all who grieve the Pope’s passing, and we give thanks for a life lived in service, marked by grace and humility.

A book of condolences has been opened in the Cathedral for visitors who wish to leave a message of remembrance.

May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

The Very Reverend Dr William Morton

Dean & Ordinary of Saint Patrick’s, Dublin