“It was with the most profound sadness that I heard of the death of Pope Francis. With his passing, the world has lost a leader whose love, compassion and care for the poor and marginalised were worthy of the Saint from whom he took his name. I recall with great fondness our meeting in the Vatican in December 2023 when we spoke about Wales and I was able to present him with a symbolic gift.  In the Church in Wales, we join in prayer with our brothers and sisters in the Roman Catholic Church as they mourn the loss of the Holy Father, and we give thanks with them for a life of faith which has been an inspiration to countless millions. In Wales, we shall have a lasting reminder of his generosity with the gift of a piece of the True Cross, which is incorporated in the ceremonial Cross of Wales which led the Coronation procession and which is now shared between the Anglican and Roman Catholic Churches in Wales. After his life of devotion to our Saviour Jesus Christ, may Pope Francis rest in peace, and may light perpetual shine upon him.”