Bishop Tim Harris has paused to remember Pope Francis, inviting locals to attend a special Mass

Pope Francis has been recognised as a “great gift to the Church and world” by Townsville Bishop Tim Harris, following news of the Pope’s passing on Monday evening.

Townsville Bishop Tim Harris meets with Pope Francis in the Vatican. Picture: Vatican Media

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The Catholic Bishop of Townsville has shared his condolences following the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday.

It was announced at 7.35am local time that the Pope had passed away, the Vatican determined his cause of death to be a stroke, causing a coma and heart failure.

Bishop Tim Harris met the Pope on multiple occasions, and said he will always be remembered.

“He had been a great gift to the Church and world, and he will be greatly missed,” he said.

“Pope Francis will always have a special place in my heart as he named me the Bishop of Townsville in 2017.”

Townsville Bishop Tim Harris meets with Pope Francis in the Vatican. Picture: Vatican Media

Bishop Harris said the world will never forget Pope Francis and the positive impact of his sermons and policies across the globe.

“He cared deeply for the poor and the oppressed,” he said.

“He worked tirelessly for peace and reconciliation.”

Bishop Harris said even during harder times, Pope Francis was always there for the people.

“He showed us a way to live and he always pointed to Jesus Christ,” he said.

“Pope Francis believed in humanity and did not give up on anybody, especially the ‘little ones’ amongst us.”

Locals are invited to attend a special Mass on Friday April 25, to honour and remember the Pontiff.

The service will begin at 6.30pm at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, all are welcome to pay their respects and pray.

Before the service begins, the bell will be rung 88 times, to acknowledge the 88 years Pope Francis lived.

Townsville locals have already shared their condolences for Pope Francis on social media, remembering him as a man filled with love and humanity.

“He was a good man who used his personal experience and faith in humanity to make important and memorable change, his journey is complete,” one said.

“May he rest in peace,” said another.

The Pope’s remains will be taken to Saint Peter’s Basilica where it will lie in state until a funeral can commence.

The exact timing of the funeral hasn’t yet been determined, but could happen as soon as this weekend, with world leaders and dignitaries from across the world expected to pay their respects.

Pope Francis will be interred in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major at his request, due to his strong devotion to Mary.

Originally published as Bishop Tim Harris has paused to remember Pope Francis, inviting locals to attend a special Mass