Albanese praised the Pope’s close relationship with the people of Australia, likening him to the first pontiff from the Southern Hemisphere. Following the announcement of the pope’s death on Easter Monday, Albanese addressed the nation.
“Pope Francis’s love for humanity was powerful and profound,” Albanese said.
“He was the first Pope from the Jesuit order and the first Latin American Pope.
“He lived frugally and simply.
“Above all else, he was driven by Christ’s values of mercy and forgiveness.
In his final Christmas message, the Pope highlighted the importance of God’s mercy, stating, ‘God’s mercy has the power to overcome every obstacle, break down barriers, dispel enmity, and eliminate the desire for revenge.’
According to the Catholic Archbishop of Sydney Anthony Fisher, Pope Francis exemplified Christ’s directive to prioritize the care of all individuals, especially the most marginalized and defenseless.
“The Church in Sydney and Australia joins with people throughout the world in mourning the passing of the Holy Father, Pope Francis,” Fisher said.
“As priest, bishop and pope, he embodied Christ’s command to care for all people, especially the most vulnerable.”
