The Dean, Mark Oakley, attended St George's Roman Catholic Cathedral in Southwark on Thursday 24^th April for Solemn Vespers in memory of Pope Francis, whose funeral is tomorrow in Rome. The Dean was representing Bishop Christopher and the Cathedral community, and he was warmly welcomed as 'my friend and brother' in the service by Canon Michael Branch, the Dean of St George's and an Ecumenical Canon of Southwark Cathedral. 

The Dean said after the service: 'It was a privilege to join the people of St George's, and representatives of local government and faith communities, in honouring Pope Francis for his ministry with gratitude and prayer for his soul. He was an extraordinary leader of the Church, both compassionate and fun, a challenger to the 'throw away' society, and someone who brought us back to remembering the mercies of God. Those of us in the Church of England, and other Christian traditions, are hugely grateful for his spiritual teaching, hopeful encouragement, and the alternative tone he set for leadership in our world. May he rest peace. We are keeping our brothers and sisters at St George's in our prayers over the coming weeks'. 

Photo credit: CBCEW/Mazur