Unfortunately, last Monday, Easter Monday, we sadly heard the news that our Holy Father, Pope Francis passed away by 7:30 am in his apartment at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, Vatican City. Since then, the whole Church has been mourning and praying to commend his soul to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.
In his letter to the priests of the Diocese, Cardinal Vincent said on Monday that “Pope Francis was called to the priesthood through his experience of the mercy and compassion of God. This remained the core of his ministry, as Priest, Bishop and the Supreme Pontiff. Only in understanding the love and mercy of God towards each one of us can we fashion societies and communities that bear the mark of the ‘kingdom of God’. Cardinal Vincent reinforced Pope Francis’ emphasis on “membership of the Church as being rooted in ‘missionary discipleship’”, providing “a dynamic and powerful vision for every Christian and every ‘community”. As we can all testify, Pope Francis, from the onset of his ministry and his pontificate, expressed that no one should be marginalised; all are called into the house of God with compassion and love.
I will, indeed, remember him for his doctrine of inclusiveness, the Year of Mercy, the Jubilee Year of Hope, and the synod on synodality. He gave so much to humanity. Let us appreciate him and give thanks to God for giving us a humble, peaceful, and unassuming Pope. Let’s continue to remember him in our prayers now and always. The Conclave will take place as soon as he is buried. It consists of 138 Cardinals from all over the world who will vote to elect a new Pope. We pray for them, as well, so that they will be directed and guided by the Holy Spirit to choose a Holy Man for the Church and beyond.
Memorial Mass
The Cardinal has requested that all parishes celebrate a Requiem Mass for Pope Francis. Therefore, the Sacred Heart Parish Community shall celebrate Mass for the eternal repose of the soul of Pope Francis on Friday at 9:15 am followed by a short Adoration and Benediction. All are invited and are encouraged to attend this Mass.
From today, we shall pray for Pope Francis at the end of each Mass till we have the memorial Mass on Friday. Then, the following Week, we shall be saying prayers for the election of his successor in the same way.
Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace.
Amen
May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God rest in peace.
Amen.