On behalf of Pope Francis, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, delivered a statement paying tribute to Bishop Tony Farquhar RIP. The statement reads:
Bishop Donal McKeown, Apostolic Administrator of Down and Connor.
His Holiness Pope Francis was saddened to be informed of the death of Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Anthony Farquhar, and he extends his condolences to you and the clergy, religious and lay faithful of the diocese. Entrusting his soul to the loving mercy of Christ the Good Shepherd, His Holiness joins you in giving thanks to Almighty God for the late Bishop’s many years of priestly and episcopal ministry to the Church in Down and Connor, especially his involvement in education, commitment to ecumenism and fidelity in fostering the values of dialogue and peace.
To all who mourn the passing of this devoted pastor, particularly his family, the Holy Father readily imparts his blessing as a pledge of consolation and peace in the risen Lord.
ENDS
