Pope Francis is a hard act to follow

A priest who looks after the Catholic community in West Cornwall has said Pope Francis will be a “hard act to follow” following his death.

On Monday, the Vatican confirmed Pope Francis died after suffering a stroke and irreversible heart failure, aged 88, after being recently discharged from hospital having had weeks of treatment for an infection.

Father Paul Keys said churches across West Cornwall, as well as churches across the globe, would hold funerals for the Pope.

The Vatican said the Pope’s funeral would take place on 26 April in front of St Peter’s Basilica.

Father Paul said: “Although he had been ill for some time, it came as a great shock to all of us and a great sadness, but what a beautiful final moment for Pope Francis to have gathered all at Easter to celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

“So, if there is a good time to die, this is the time because of our belief in eternal life.

“There’s sadness because he was very much a pope for all people, so people felt that connection whether you are Catholic or not.”

He said churches in Penzance, Hayle and St Ives would hold a Requiem Mass, a service where prayers are said for someone who has departed.

“Every pope brings their own personality, their own gifts, and talents. He will be a hard act to follow,” said Father Paul.