Australians from every corner of society and the political landscape are paying tribute to Pope Francis following his death on Sunday.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the nation on Monday evening, describing Pope Francis as “close to the people of Australia.”
“For Australian Catholics, he was a devoted champion and a loving spiritual leader,” Mr Albanese said. “His compassion and example will be remembered for generations.”
Appearing visibly emotional, Mr Albanese paused to steady himself before delivering a moving statement, reflecting on the Pope’s legacy and quoting from his final Easter message.
“We hold on to the enduring hope in his words: ‘The light quietly shines forth even though we are in darkness. The promise of new life and a world finally set free awaits us.’ May God welcome Pope Francis to eternal life,” he said.
The Prime Minister later extended heartfelt condolences to Australia’s Catholic community, acknowledging it would be a difficult time for many. He is set to visit St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne’s city centre to pay his respects.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also extended his sympathies on behalf of the Coalition, honouring Pope Francis as a deeply faithful servant of God.
“He was the first Latin American and Jesuit Pope, and a man who lived humbly, guided by Christ’s values of mercy and forgiveness,” Mr Dutton said.
He recalled the Pope’s final Christmas message: “‘God’s mercy can do all things. It unties every knot and tears down every wall of division.’ With God, may Pope Francis rest in peace.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns reflected on Pope Francis as a model of humility, simplicity, and compassion for the disadvantaged.
“Jorge Bergoglio lived modestly in Argentina and carried those values with him to the Vatican,” Mr Minns said. “He remained a Pope of the people to the end, choosing a small car over a limousine and embodying the belief that grace resides within every person.”
As tributes flowed, 88 bells rang out from St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney on Monday evening. Just a day earlier, Mr Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon attended Easter Mass at the Cathedral alongside Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher.
Archbishop Fisher was expected to hold a media conference Monday night in response to the Pope’s passing.
Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina became Pope in March 2013 following the unexpected resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as a humble leader and advocate for compassion, justice, and mercy.
