April 2, 2005

LAMBETH PALACE – The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev. Rowan Williams, has expressed his sadness on learning of the death of His Holiness Pope John Paul II.

The Archbishop said, "Pope John Paul was a leader of manifest holiness and a faithful and prayerful friend of the Anglican Church.

"There will be time in the days ahead for the proper tributes to be paid; for now we remember his life and ministry with thankfulness and hold the church that he led in our thoughts and prayers."

Episcopal News Service