Northern Irish Leaders, Parties Honor Pope Francis After His Passing

Political and religious leaders across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have expressed deep sadness and respect following the death of Pope Francis. Leaders from various political parties, including the DUP and SDLP, as well as First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Taoiseach Micháel Martin, highlighted the Pope’s compassion, advocacy for social justice, and his efforts toward peace, particularly noting his support for the Irish peace process and his visit to Ireland in 2018. Protestant church leaders acknowledged the grief of their Catholic neighbors and commended Pope Francis’s ecumenical spirit, leadership, and prioritization of care for the poor and vulnerable. Many tributes emphasized his openness to other Christian traditions, his calls for climate action, and his efforts to address global issues such as the plight of refugees and the Israeli war in Gaza. Pope Francis was recognized for fostering admiration and respect across denominational and political divides, with leaders underscoring his legacy of faith, humility, and dedication to the marginalized. The widespread condolences reflect the profound impact he had on communities throughout Ireland and beyond.