Mourners gathered in Edinburgh city centre on Monday to pay their respects following the passing of Pope Francis.
Crowds lined up at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral on April 21 following the death of the 88-year-old on Easter Monday.
His death was announced by the Vatican on Monday after he battled respiratory illness for months. The pontiff was hospitalised in Rome earlier this year after suffering bronchitis – an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes in the lungs.
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His condition worsened as doctor’s had to change his treatment due to a “complex clinical situation”. After undergoing an X-ray, it was confirmed he was suffering from double pneumonia.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell said: “At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune.″
Local Edinburgh resident, Philemina, visited the cathedral to take part in prayer for the late Pope. Speaking to Edinburgh Live, she said: “He had a massive impact, he was always for the poor, but it was his time to move on.”
Sean McPartlin was also in attendance at the cathedral on Monday afternoon. He said: “It’s sad news, it’s transitional. He was a progressive Pope who had connections with the poor, the disconnected and the marginalised. I am praying for his soul and looking to the next appointment and hoping it will be as enlightened.
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday
In a statement, First Minister John Swinney said he feels “deep sadness” at the news of Pope Francis’ death. He added: “It is with deep sadness I heard the news this morning of the death of Pope Francis.
“He was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation in our society. He brought comfort, assurance and hope to many. May he Rest in Peace.”
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Mr Swinney, who attends church with his family but is not formally a member of the Catholic Church, said peace and reconciliation had always been an important part of Pope Francis’ ministry.
He added: “He argued always for bringing people together and that leadership has been of enormous significance.
“The Pope has spoken with such power on the trauma that has been experienced by the people of Ukraine, by the people of Gaza.
“His faithfulness in keeping in contact with the people of Gaza and his remarks on Gaza have been such an important contribution and illustration of his faithful leadership.”
Pope Francis – previously cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio – died at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta He had made an appearance at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.
He came out in a wheelchair and waved from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to cheering crowds.
St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral are holding an evening prayer at 7pm on Monday, April 21.
Issuing a statement on Facebook, they said: “Join us tonight at 7:00pm for a Holy Hour with Vespers (evening prayer of the Church) as we pray for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis.
“The Cathedral is open all day so people can say a prayer and light a candle for the Holy Father.”