A popular church minister who was the first Bermudian of African descent to become a Canon Residentiary at the Anglican Cathedral, has died.

The Reverend Canon James Francis was installed as Canon Residentiary at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity in 1985.

He served as canon at the cathedral for 12 years before moving to Christ Anglican Church in Devonshire, where he spent 20 years as rector.

Earlier this year, Canon Francis, who was 96, was honoured for his work with youth ministry development both locally and abroad.

In 1961, Canon Francis travelled to the United States to help with youth outreach in New York, Cleveland and Detroit.

He went on to spend 24 years in the US, establishing the Lincoln Heights Health Clinic and rebuilding church membership in Detroit.

When he returned to Bermuda, he travelled to different churches around the island and helped to revitalise their congregations.

In a 2010 interview with The Royal Gazette, Canon Francis explained his pragmatic — perhaps unorthodox — approach to religion and his ambition to bring parishioners back into the fold.

He said: “Too many Christians are preoccupied with preparing to get the Heaven and neglecting to work to make this earth a better place before they leave it.

“Let’s look at the statistics. In the last few censuses, membership in the Anglican Church has decreased, not increased. This is not the case in many of the charismatic churches and we must ask ourselves why.

“One of the failings of our church is that we do not empower people to take leadership positions. Everything is left to the priest. Some of us tend to be so hung up on the liturgy that we fail to note our lack of appeal, particularly to the youth.”

In that interview, Canon Francis also took aim at what he saw as a breakdown in the fabric of society.

He said: “Our education system is failing. Our financial system is failing. Our entire political system seems to be collapsing under the weight of double standards.”

David Burt praised Canon Francis for his life of service.

The Premier said: “Canon James Francis was a true servant leader whose compassion and unwavering commitment to fairness and bettering the lives of others have left an indelible mark on Bermuda.

“He exemplified the values of faith, hope and community, reminding us all of the power of service to transform lives.

“The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party joins the entire country in mourning his loss, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who were privileged to know and love him.”

A PLP spokesman added: “The PLP joins with the people of Bermuda in mourning the passing of Canon James W. Francis, a distinguished Bermudian whose life was marked by unwavering service, dedication to faith and a profound commitment to his community.

“The PLP extends its deepest sympathies to the family, friends and former congregants of Canon Francis during this time of loss.

“May his legacy continue to shine brightly in the hearts and lives of all who were touched by his kindness and leadership.”