By Corey Everitt
Many locals have joined millions across the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis.
His Holiness died on Easter Monday, a few weeks after an extended period in hospital through February and March.
Pope Francis gave his final Easter address and blessed children on Easter Sunday despite advice to rest.
Bishop of Sale, Greg Bennet said the Holy Father presented “humility in style, dress and manner”.
“Compassionate to the poor; merciful to the forgotten; welcoming to the stranger; humble in lifestyle; courageous in addressing the concerns of the modern world; a voice of challenge to the powerful and always deeply concerned to remind the Church that her mission was the same as the mission of Jesus,” Bishop Bennet said in a statement.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Argentinian would become the first non-European Pope in over a thousand years and was the first Pope from the Americas.
Becoming the head of The Holy See in 2013, the name Francis was chosen after Saint Francis of Assisi, who chose a life of poverty to preach his faith and is the patron of animals and the environment.
This would precede his pontificate’s new direction in concerns with the poor, calls for international action on climate change, more liberal statements on social issues and pleas to end war across the world.
Herbie O’Flynn from St Patrick’s Pakenham, said Pope Francis inspired believers to help others, like in the Parish’s relief initiative, Paddy’s Kitchen.
“He was very down to earth, Pope Francis encouraged us to reach out to those in need,” Mr O’Flynn said.
The funeral will take place on Saturday 10am, local time, in Vatican City.
