Pope Francis death: NZ leaders including Chris Luxon, Winston Peters, react
Photo:
AFP / Alberto Pizzoli
New Zealand's political leaders have begun paying tribute to
Pope Francis
, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, who died on Easter Sunday.
He was 88.
His death comes one day after he made a public appearance in Vatican City, where he had appealed for a ceasefire in Gaza during his final speech.
He had battled ill health for some weeks, having spent 38 days in Rome's Gemelli hospital between 14 February and 23 March.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described Pope Francis as a "man of humility" and said his legacy "includes an unwavering commitment to the vulnerable, to social justice and to interfaith dialogue".
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Pope Francis.
A man of humility, his legacy includes an unwavering commitment to the vulnerable, to social justice and to interfaith dialogue.
My thoughts are with Catholics and all those in New Zealand and around the world who mourn…
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said New Zealand and its government joined "in mourning his loss and honour his enduring legacy of humility and compassion".
On behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand, we extend our deepest condolences to the Holy See and the global Roman Catholic community on the passing of Pope Francis.
We join in mourning his loss and honour his enduring legacy of humility and compassion.
-Acting…
"Throughout his papacy, he showed deep compassion and an unwavering commitment to social justice, inclusion, and the dignity of every person," Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins said.
Very sad to hear of the passing of Pope Francis. Throughout his papacy, he showed deep compassion and an unwavering commitment to social justice, inclusion, and the dignity of every person. His leadership challenged us all to build a fairer and more caring world.
Former Prime Minister Helen Clark said she was "deeply saddened" to hear of the Pope's passing.
Deeply saddened by news of the death of Pope Francis; respected globally for his dedication to peace & justice. He also made history as the 1st Pope from Latin America. May Pope Francis rest in peace now.
@Pontifex
https://t.co/jJSBTm23Lu
pic.twitter.com/y9ZMjtEnh7
Bishop Steve Lowe, the Roman Catholic Bishop of Auckland, also shared his condolences:
"It is with a heavy heart that we bid God rest to Pope Francis whom whom the Risen Lord gently called from this life a short while ago," he said.
"As Mary Magdalene and the apostles saw the Risen Lord face to face may Pope Francis now see him in His glory.
"Eternal rest grant to him O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace."
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