Campaigning federal party leaders mark the death of Pope Francis Winnipeg Free Press [Video]

OTTAWA – Campaigning party leaders reflected Monday on the life and legacy of Pope Francis, worldwide leader of the Roman Catholic Church for 12 years.

The pontiff died Monday at age 88, the Vatican said.

Nearly 11 million Canadians identified as Catholic in the 2021 census, including both Liberal Leader Mark Carney and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.

In a lengthy statement, released in his capacity as prime minister, Carney praised Pope Francis for redefining “the moral responsibilities of leadership in the 21st century” and for his work on climate action and social injustice.

“His vision of fairness between the generations was rooted in concrete calls for action, policy and personal responsibility,” Carney wrote.

The pope’s death raises questions about whether Carney will leave for the funeral in Vatican City later this week — removing him from the road during the final days of the election campaign.

The funeral for a …