Pope Francis was « unique and open to all »
David B. Tencer, bishop of the Catholic Church in Iceland, says the death of Pope Francis is like when a family father falls away. He describes the Pope as a simple man who was open to all people.
The Vatican announced this morning that the Pope was dead, 88 years old. He held office for twelve years.
Met the Pope in early February
In a conversation with mbl.is, David says the Pope’s resignation is sad. Not long ago, the Catholic Church staff in Iceland met the Pope in Rome.
« This is such a strong experience, especially for us, because we were in Rome in early February, on a pilgrimage, and there the Pope welcomed us. We were among the last he received, » says David.
He refers there to long hospital stay that began after the Pope was diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs around mid -February.
Pope Francis welcomed the church’s staff when they visited Rome in early February.
Photo/Catholic Church in Iceland
Unique and loved the poor
David describes the Pope as cheerful and warm as he welcomed the group in February, and says those memories now come back when the Pope is remembered within the Catholic Church in Iceland.
When asked, he says all the pope have a great impact when they take office, but that it was simplicity that characterized Pope Francis.
« He loved to be unique and loved the poor. It doesn’t often happen that you in such a high position are so simple and open to everyone, » says David.
« I feel like everyone who met him remembers him in that way, » he adds.
Memorial Mass held tomorrow
Mass was held this morning at Landakots Church where Pope Francis was remembered after news was received of his death.
David says a special memorial Mass will be held tomorrow at 6 pm in the Cathedral, where the Pope’s soul will be asked.
Asked about the next steps and the choice of a new Pope, the bishop says that it should not be in the minds of people at his time.
« What we should do now is to sang the Pope and pray for him – then it comes to how we will continue. »
