on Monday expressed its deepest sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis and extended an invitation to Catholics and all people of good will to join in prayer for his eternal rest.
"On the Easter of the Resurrection, when Jesus conquered death and evil, God has called our beloved Pope Francis to His side," the
Assembly of Bishops of Peru stated in a communiqué.
Likewise, it expressed that the institution, united with the entire Catholic community, conveys its deep sadness, "yet marked by the hope and faith that Pope Francis always shared with us and taught."
Furthermore, it highlighted the statement by the Cardinal Camerlengo of the Holy See when announcing to the world the passing of the Supreme Pontiff, namely that his entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church, and to teaching others to live the values of the Gospel, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized.
The
Peruvian Episcopal Conference also affirmed that Peru remembers with affection, loyalty, and gratitude the visit of the Supreme Pontiff in 2018, during which he visited the cities of Puerto Maldonado, Trujillo, and Lima.
"His presence, welcomed by a multitude of faithful, confirmed our faith, reaffirmed our concern for the most humble, innocent, and vulnerable, and rekindled the fire of our hope," the statement on the papal visit highlighted.
"Accompanying him on his return to the House of the Heavenly Father, we invite the entire Catholic people and all people of good will to join in prayer for the eternal rest of Pope Francis," the communiqué concluded.
The passing of the Supreme Pontiff occurred this Monday at 7:35 a.m., Rome time, according to the announcement made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Vatican.