The Archdiocese of Glasgow has announced the death of Archbishop Philip Tartaglia.

A statement posted today on its website read: "The Archbishop of Glasgow, Philip Tartaglia, has died suddenly at his home in Glasgow. He was 70 years old.

"Archbishop Tartaglia, who had served as Archbishop of Glasgow since 2012, had tested positive for COVID 19 shortly after Christmas and was self-isolating at home. The cause of death is not yet clear."


Archbishop Leo Cushley said: "I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the unexpected death of Archbishop Philip. He was a dear friend whom I’ve known most of my life and his learning, wisdom and experience benefited so many people, in Paisley, Glasgow and beyond.

"He will be sorely missed by everyone in the Catholic Church in Scotland. My affection and prayers go to his family, who are also dear friends, and to all the clergy and people of the Archdiocese. May the Lord welcome him into paradise.”

Sadness

Bishop Hugh Gilbert, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, said: "It is with the deepest sadness that we have learned today on the Feast of St Kentigern (Mungo) of the death of our brother bishop and friend Philip Tartaglia.

"His loss to his family, his clergy and the people of the Archdiocese of Glasgow will be immeasurable but for the entire Church in Scotland this is a day of immense loss and sadness.

He was a gentle, caring and warm-hearted pastor who combined compassion with a piercing intellect. His contribution to the work of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland over the past sixteen years was significant and we will miss his wisdom, wit and robust Catholic spirit very much.

"On behalf of the Bishops of Scotland, we commend his soul into the hands of God and pray that he may enjoy eternal rest.”

Archbishop Tartaglia was appointed the Apostolic Administrator of our Archdiocese in 2013 ahead of the appointment of Archbishop Cushley.

Pope Francis will appoint a new Archbishop to succeed Archbishop Tartaglia, but until then the Archdiocese will be overseen by an administrator.

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Archbishop Philip, for his family and friends and people of the Archdiocese of Glasgow.