THE Acting Bishop of Truro has paid tribute to Pope Francis who has died this morning (Monday, April 21) at the age of 88.

Francis, who became pope in 2013, had recently experienced health problems and spent many weeks in hospital. He was, however, able to recover enough to greet crowds in St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.

The Vatican confirmed the news that Pope Francis, who was the first pope from the Americas and the Southern Hemisphere, had died earlier this morning.

Following the news, The Rt Rev Hugh Nelson, released a statement which read: “Today I join with the church throughout the world, in mourning the death of Pope Francis. My prayers are particularly with our Roman Catholic brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Plymouth.

“In Pope Francis’ long life and ministry to Christ and His Church, he saw profound changes in the church and in the world.

“Pope Francis will be remembered for his humble love of Jesus, his concern for the those in need and his focus on climate change.

“May he rest in Christ’s peace, and rise in glory.”