Russian bishop Dubinin calls Pope Francis’ death on Easter Monday a 'consoling sign', labels him peacemaker

Pope Francis will go down in history as a great "peacemaker," he added.

"The fact that the Lord took him on Easter Monday - that is, to continue our greatest Christian holiday, which speaks of the victory of life over death - is a comforting and encouraging sign for us, believers," the Russian said.

“A sign of hope for eternal life. We say that Dad has passed away. In a human way, of course, we are sad and grieving, but in a Christian way we rejoice.”

According to the propagandist, humanity is now going through "difficult and dramatic times" and Francis is the peacemaker that was needed.

"He has always sought peace, harmony, and dialogue - with different people, with different religions," the Russian media quoted the bishop as saying.

“And he tried to convey that we all live on the same planet, so we are brothers and sisters, and we should strive to live in mutual love and respect, to seek peaceful dialogue.”