Pope Francis, known for his humility and commitment to social justice, died peacefully at his Vatican residence on Easter Monday. Bishop Thomas Dowd shared a personal tribute, recalling their encounters and the pope’s message to meet people where they are The Bishop of the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie, which includes the North Bay area, says the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday at the age of 88 has left him with "profound sadness." Bishop Thomas Dowd was appointed by Pope Francis on October 22, 2020. "Just Sunday, he encountered pilgrims in Saint Peter’s Square and offered them the special “urbi et orbi” blessing. How fitting that his final public act was to profess the Resurrection of Jesus, just before going to meet Jesus personally," says Dowd in a news release. Pope Francis died at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. Bishop Dowd says he had the opportunity to meet with Pope Francis numerous times. "He always exhibited humility, kindness and a sense of humour - even accepting me taking a selfie with him! During our gatherings with Pope Francis, he shared with us the secret to understanding his papacy, which can be summarized as 'invite people to holiness, but first meet them where they are at.'" Bishop Dowd, aAfter the meeting had a chance to greet the Pope one by one. "I invite the faithful throughout the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie and all those who mourn his loss, to pray for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis. May we honour his legacy by our commitment to be in solidarity with the poor and marginalized, striving toward Christian unity and furthering reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. "The Holy Father has been called home to the Lord. May he rest in peace." Pope Francis will be laid to rest Saturday after lying in state for three days in St. Peter’s Basilica. See: Pope Francis' funeral to be held Saturday, with public viewing starting Wednesday The Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie comprises the Districts of Sudbury and Algoma, it also includes portions of Nipissing District north and west of Lake Nipissing, and Manitoulin Island, with three major population centres in North Bay. Sault Ste. Marie, and Sudbury.