Statement of Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly on the death of Pope Francis

23 Apr 2025

  • Book of Condolences for people to record their sympathy on the death of Pope Francis is now available on the homepage of catholicbishops.ie, and on the Irish bishops’ social media platforms of Facebook, Instagram, X, and on BlueSky
  • Link to video clips and addresses of Pope Francis during his August 2018 visit to Ireland

Statement
It was with great sadness that the people of the Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly and I,  learned of the death of Pope Francis, RIP.
 
His recent medical struggles and Easter Triduum appearances in Saint Peter’s in Rome had brought hope to all that he was on a journey of recovery from his recent illness.  However, having fought the good fight to the end he returned to the home of the Father – the loving God  in whom he trusted – early on Easter Monday morning, the meeting day at Galilee.
 
His ministry as Pope was characterised by his commitment to the poor and marginalised, to leading global awareness about the common home that we all share on this planet.  One of Pope Francis’ abiding legacies will be his call to all to share our beautiful world for the benefit of all.  Especially,  his calls for special attention of care for those whose lives are endangered because of climate change.  A call that becomes ever  more valid with every serious weather event.
 
From the earliest days of his ministry he challenged all believers to become Missionary Disciples of the Risen Lord – all our pastoral and Church life he called to be lived out of missionary conviction.  This challenge is never more relevant as we journey together on our Synodal journey, as a Universal Church and a National Church.
 
A book of condolences will be available to sign in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Thurles, over the coming days.
 
May Pope Francis rest in peace and may he be welcomed into the Father’s eternal home.  Solas na bhlaitheas da anam usual.

ENDS

  • Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly SMA is the Archbishop of Cashel and Emly