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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Paul Britton

Bishop of Salford pays tribute to the life of Pope Benedict XVI

The Bishop of Salford, the head of the Catholic church in Greater Manchester, has paid tribute to the life of Pope Benedict XVI, who has died aged 95.

The Right Reverend John Arnold praised the former Pontiff's 'leadership and gentle shepherding of the church' during his eight years as pope.

Pope Francis announced on Wednesday that his predecessor was 'very sick' and today, New Year's Eve, the Vatican announced the former Pontiff had died. A statement from Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said: "With pain I inform that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died today at 9.34 in the Mater Ecclesia Monastery in the Vatican. Further information will be released as soon as possible."

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