In Loving Memory of Pope Francis
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
With heavy hearts, we join the global Church in mourning the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. A shepherd of deep humility, courage, and compassion, Pope Francis faithfully served the People of God as the 266th successor to Saint Peter. His pontificate was marked by a profound emphasis on mercy, care for the poor, ecological responsibility, and the joy of the Gospel.
We invite all parishioners to pray for the repose of his soul:
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
What Happens Next?
The death of a pope initiates a time of mourning and transition in the Catholic Church, guided by centuries of sacred tradition:
1. A Period of Mourning
The Church enters a formal period of mourning, typically lasting nine days ("novemdiales"). Special Masses will be celebrated in thanksgiving for Pope Francis’s life and service, and in prayer for his soul.
2. The Conclave
After a period of preparation and prayer, the College of Cardinals will gather in Vatican City for a conclave—a closed-door assembly to elect a new pope. This solemn process is steeped in tradition and seeks the guidance of the Holy Spirit in selecting the next Bishop of Rome.
3. Awaiting a New Shepherd
During this interregnum (the time between popes), the Church continues her mission under the leadership of the College of Cardinals. The faithful are encouraged to unite in prayer for the cardinals as they discern and elect our next Holy Father.
What Can the Faithful Do?
In this historic and spiritual moment, we are not passive observers—we are a people of prayer and hope. Here’s how you can participate:
- Pray Daily for the repose of Pope Francis’s soul and for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the conclave.
- Attend Masses offered in his memory and for the Church in transition.
- Teach Your Children about the papacy, our connection to the pope, and the beauty of apostolic succession.
- Stay Informed through trustworthy Catholic news sources to follow the process with reverence and understanding.
- Trust in God’s Providence, knowing the Church is in His hands and that the Holy Spirit will raise up the leader we need.
Let us entrust Pope Francis to the mercy of God, even as we entrust the future of our Church to the wisdom of the Holy Spirit.
Saint Peter, pray for us.
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Come, Holy Spirit.