THE DEATH of Pope Francis fills me with a deep sadness as we mourn the loss of a kind, courageous and gentle pastor. I also have a sense of gratitude to God for the great leadership he has given to the Church over the course of his papacy.

Pupils from St Colman's NS, Stradbally and Scoil Mhuire Fatima, Timahoe recently received the sacrament of Confirmation at the Church of the Sacred Heart, Stradbally.