The Member of Parliament for Heywood and Middleton passed away at the age of 73 while on a Council of Europe trip to Poland.
He was a devoted Roman Catholic and in 2008 Pope Benedict made him a papal knight.
Mr Dobbin chaired the Pro Life Committee and often stood up for his religious beliefs during debates.
Cardinal Nichols, leader of Catholics in England and Wales said: "On behalf of the Catholic community, I express profound sorrow at the unexpected death of Jim Dobbin MP on his recent trip to Poland. I share with many a deep sense of loss at his death. First thoughts are with his widow and family. I assure Mrs Pat Dobbin of my prayers for her beloved husband and, of course, for her and her family at this time of loss. I pray that the precious gift of faith in the promises of Jesus will strengthen and sustain her in the sure hope of God's merciful welcome for Jim and his eternal rest in the presence of his living Lord.
"Jim Dobbin has been a stalwart servant of this country throughout his long life, especially in his Parliamentary career. His service was particularly robust and persevering in matters concerning the fundamental dignity of every human life, from the moment of conception to its natural end. This is the most radical service than can be given, for once that fundamental respect for human life is lost, then society is dramatically weakened and the vulnerable put into real danger.
"We salute Jim's sterling work and thank God for the consistent witness he gave. In the phrase of Pope Francis, Jim was truly a missionary disciple in this land. May he rest in peace as he awaits the final resurrection of all things in the Lord."