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Statement on the death of Pope Francis: A Pope of Compassion

21 April 2025
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Anna Rowlands shaking hands with Pope Francis

As a University community we are deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Monday morning (21 April), as announced by the Vatican.

A Pope of Compassion

Pope Francis’ death brings an end to his 12-year tenure as the head of the Catholic Church.

Our hearts go out to the global Roman Catholic community, and everyone touched by this news, during this time of sorrow.

I am saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis who touched the lives of so many of our University. His unwavering message of compassion for those who suffer because of war, natural disaster and migration resonated deeply with our community. Our thoughts are with the members of the Roman Catholic Church during this period of mourning.
Karen O'Brien, Vice-Chancellor and Warden
Durham University

In a statement, His Majesty King Charles lll said: "His holiness will be remembered by for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith, and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others."

A Lasting Legacy

Sir Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister, said he was 'deeply saddened to hear of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis'.

Sir Keir added: “His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of the people of the United Kingdom, I share my sincerest condolences to the whole Catholic Church.”

Durham's esteemed theologian, Professor Anna Rowlands, has been actively engaged in examining key global issues to help shape the future of the Catholic Church as part of the global Synod process initiated by Pope Francis.

Currently in Rome, Professor Rowlands has been providing expert commentary and reactions to the news of the Pope's passing.

For more information contact Lucian Hudson via communications.team@press.durham.ac.uk.

Find out more

  • Professor Anna Rowlands is the St Hilda Professor of Catholic Social Thought and Practice, in Durham’s Department of Theology and Religion, and a member of the University’s Centre for Catholic Studies.
  • Dr Liam Temple, Assistant Professor in the History of Catholicism, recently reviewed the first autobiography written by a sitting pope. Dr Temple has also reflected on Pope Francis’ tenure as an unconventional pontiff who tirelessly worked to modernise Catholicism, for The Conversation.
  • Professor Paul Murray is one of the first three Ecumenical Canons at Durham Cathedral.
  • Our Department of Theology and Religion is one of the most varied and dynamic in the UK; our Department is a place where ‘belief’ and ‘beliefs’ are taken seriously, respected, and studied. Together, we form a lively and welcoming community to those of all faiths and to those of none.
  • The Centre for Catholic Studies is a centre for critically constructive Catholic studies, working in close partnership with the Catholic Church and other organisations, in multiple ways, to produce future leaders, foster talent, and promote the growth of Catholic scholarship locally and globally.