The Primate of All Ireland, Dr Sean Brady spoke tonight of his sadness at the death of Pope John Paul II.
In a statement, Dr Brady said: "A life of outstanding faith and generous service to Christ and the whole human family has serenely departed this world this evening with the death of our beloved Holy Father, Pope John Paul II.
"We mourn with heavy hearts and an immense sense of loss the death of a loving Pastor, a gentle teacher and a courageous leader. We thank God for his holy life, his inspiring example and his unfailing affection for Ireland and the Irish people.
"We join with countless others around the world in grateful memory and prayerful intercession for his eternal happiness and peace."
The Bishop of Down and Connor described Pope John Paul as an heroic man.
The Most Rev Patrick Walsh said: "He was an heroic man, heroic at every stage of his life from a very early age when he lost his mother, his only brother and then his father. He was heroic in the hardships he endured under the Communist regime in his country.
"He was heroic in the manner in which he endured the attempt on his life and he was heroic in his long-time suffering with illness. He was heroic in his dying. He taught us how to live, how to suffer and how to die."
Rev Walsh said the sadness at the Pope's death is shared by fellow Christians and by "so many non-Christians, people of goodwill, who recognised in the Pope a person who in his constant teaching on so many major issues affecting the good of humanity was in many respects the conscience of the world."
The Bishop of Waterford and Lismore, Rev William Lee, said the Pope's death has evoked a worldwide response of affectionate respect as well as sadness. "I am sure that the example of his life and death will continue to enrich the lives of people everywhere. The Holy Father's suffering is now over and he is enjoying life with the risen Christ."
He added: "Throughout his time as Pope, John Paul II preached the gospel of Jesus without fear and reached out to all people without exception, respecting every one of us as being made in the image and likeness of God. Young people and the elderly were particularly dear to him."
The Apostolic Nunciature in Ireland has said a Book of Condolences will be opened at the Nunciature (183 Navan Road, Dublin 7) where it can be signed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (4th, 5th and 6th April) from 10am to 3pm.