Foyle MP Colum Eastwood has expressed his condolences on the sad passing this morning of Pope Francis.
Said the former SDLP leader: “Pope Francis was a leader in every sense of the word. His deep wells of kindness, compassion and empathy for others, especially the marginalised and dispossessed, gave him a powerful moral authority that went far beyond his role as head of the Catholic Church.
“I know that people across our community, many of whom do not identify as Catholic or who had felt themselves distant from the church, felt a closeness to and strong admiration for Pope Francis that transcended denomination.
“That came from his characteristic love of people, his modest lifestyle and commitment to lifting up the most vulnerable. The loss of his leadership will be keenly felt across the world.
“Pope Francis had a particularly strong affinity for Ireland and his visit in 2018 was a remarkable moment for our island.
“We were also deeply touched by the kind, thoughtful messages he extended to Derry following the death of John Hume. His fondness for Ireland and the people who live here was reciprocated by our community.
“This is a sad day for the Catholic community across Ireland particularly as it comes during the Easter period.
“Our thoughts are with all those who knew and worked with Pope Francis through his ministry and with all the faithful who will be feeling this loss today.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilis.”
