The South African Council of Churches (SACC) joins with people around the world in celebrating the life and ministry of Pope John Paul II. The Pope passed away last night at the age of 84.

"We are greatly saddened by the Pope's death," said Professor Russel Botman, President of the SACC. "He was not only the spiritual leader of the world's 1.1 billion Roman Catholics, but he was a moral compass to a great many more people of other denominations and faiths."

During more than 26 years as head of the Roman Catholic Church, the late pontiff was a tireless advocate of democracy and peace. His compassion for the poor was evident in his strong support for Mother Teresa's work with marginalised people in India and around the world, as well as his backing for the international campaign for debt relief.

Although his health had been failing in recent years, for much of his incumbency he was a vigorous and active Pope, travelling widely to minister to Catholics around the world. He also reached out to people of other faiths, particularly the Jewish and Muslim communities, an effort that included an unprecedented trip to both Israeli and Palestinian areas of the Holy Land.

The Chair of the South African Church Leaders' Forum, Bishop Ivan Abrahams, commended the celebration of Pope John Paul II's life as a divine gift to all humanity. "This is not a time to mourn the passing of a friend, but a moment to celebrate a life lived faithfully and in solidarity with the poor of the world," he said.

"We will remember the Holy Father as a friend of South Africa and a supporter of the struggle for democracy, human rights and dignity for all," added Dr. Molefe Tsele, General Secretary of the SACC. "His visit to South Africa in 1995 was a clear expression of his blessing on our transition to democracy and our work towards reconciliation."

For more information: Dr. Molefe Tsele, 082 458 2037