Our parish joined with millions of believers in the worldwide church in praying for the repose of the soul of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who passed away early in the morning on Easter Monday.
His death was announced by the Vatican with the following statement:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
Pope Francis’ funeral took place on Saturday, 26 April, in St. Peter’s Square.
The ceremony began at 10:00 AM Rome time and was live-streamed via Vatican Media’s YouTube channel, available here. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, presided at the Mass, and was concelebrated by Patriarchs, Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, and priests from across the globe.
Our AM and PM Masses on Sunday 27 April were dedicated to Pope Francis.
PRAYER FOR THE POPE*
Our Father. Hail Mary.
O God, shepherd and ruler of all the faithful,
look favorably on your servant Francis,
whom you have set at the head of your Church as her shepherd;
grant, we pray, that by word and example, he may be of service to those over whom he presides
so that, together with the flock entrusted to his care,
he may come to everlasting life.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever. Amen.
*Prayer by Vatican News
