Leader of Opposition has expressed condolences to members of the Catholic Church in Solomon Islands following the death of Pope on Monday.
In a statement Matthew Wale said, “On behalf of the Opposition, I extend our heartfelt condolences to our Catholic brothers and sisters here in Solomon Islands, and to the Catholic community around the world, on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.”
Pope Francis was elected to the papacy in 2013. He was the first Jesuit Pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European Pope in more than a millennium.
Wale said, both Catholics and non-Catholics alike mourn his passing and remember him as a champion of humility, compassion, and mercy.
“In a world so often fractured by injustice and indifference, he reminded us all of the enduring power of service, grace, and love.
“Though his earthly pilgrimage has come to an end, his legacy will endure. It will resonate in the global cry for peace, justice, and in the prayers of millions whose lives he so deeply touched.
“We share in this grief alongside His Grace, Archbishop Christopher Cardone OP, and the entire Catholic community throughout Solomon Islands, as we honour the life and memory of a great shepherd of our time,” the Opposition Leader said in a statement.
It was reported Pope Francis died of a stroke that put him into a coma and led to heart failure.
Since his passing bells tolled in Catholic churches from his native Argentina to the Philippines and across Rome as news spread around the world.
A memorial mass will be held on Friday at the Holy Cross on Friday starting 1pm.
– Opposition Press
