Below is a statement by Cardial Thomas Collins, archbishop of Toronto, on the passing of Pope Benedict XVI.

Throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto, we join in mourning the loss of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. We give thanks for his years of faithful, thoughtful and inspiring service to the Church.

As a priest for more than 70 years and in his time as bishop and supreme pontiff, Pope Emeritus Benedict offered each one of us a personal example of fidelity and of what it is to be a devoted disciple of Jesus. As a theologian, he followed in the footsteps of the great St Augustine, in offering to us profound insight into the mysteries of our Christian faith, insight arising by God’s grace not only from his astonishing intellect and learning, but also from his personal holiness and pastoral care for God’s people; his writings will help guide disciples of Jesus in the centuries that lie before us. 

As pope, he led the universal church with wisdom and holiness, providing a clear and loving message of how our faith can inspire us and guide us through the storms of life’s journey. More than ever, his own witness, humility and invitation to put others before ourselves should resonate throughout the world.

We pray for the repose of his soul. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.