Leading political figures have paid tribute to a Catholic priest slain in France on Monday.

The body of Father Olivier Maire, Provincial Superior of the Montfort Missionaries, was found at his community’s home in the western Vendée region.

A 40-year-old Rwandan immigrant, who had been given refuge by the community, handed himself in to police, confessing to murder.

French President Emmanuel Macron said that Fr Maire’s generosity and love for others were reflected even in the features of his face.

He offered his condolences to the Montfortians and all Catholics of France, adding that, “Protecting those who believe is a priority.”

Bishop François Jacolin of the Luçon diocese said Fr Maire suffered a “brutal death”, but he was “a victim of his generosity” and “a martyr to charity”.

Dominican nun, Sister Véronique Margron, said there is incomprehension that the priest died while practicing the great biblical virtue of offering hospitality to a stranger.

Yet, she said she hopes this tragedy would not destroy the ideal of hospitality and sharing.