Following the news of Pope Francis' death on this Easter Morning, aged 88, Bishops of Bristol and Swindon paid tribute to him, saying:
"It is beautiful that, just yesterday, Pope Francis' last public act was to offer his Easter Blessing in St Peter's Square.
We offer our condolences to Bishop Bosco MacDonald, Catholic Bishop of Clifton, and all our sisters and brothers in Catholic churches across our region, as we mourn the death of Pope Francis.
Amongst many things, we particularly give thanks for Pope Francis' persistent and prophetic focus on the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, on mercy and ending of wars, as well as the environment and care for Creation.
With gratitude for his life and ministry, which gave hope to millions of people around the world."
The Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, Bishop of Bristol
The Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Bishop of Swindon
Prayer stations have been setup at Bristol Cathedral, St Luke's, Swindon, St Andrew's, Chippenham, amongst other spaces where people are welcome to offer their condolences and prayers for Pope Francis.