Pray for the Soul of Pope Francis

As Catholics around the world learn of the death of Pope Francis, we are called to unite in prayer.

This morning at 7:35 AM Rome time, Pope Francis passed away after suffering for several months with multiple health issues. Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, Camerlengo of the Roman Catholic Church, announced the pope's death:

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 devoted to service to the Lord and His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour 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 the One and Triune God. (OSV News)

What Happens Next?

Dates for the pope's funeral and the upcoming conclave, during which a new pope will be elected, have yet to be announced.

The canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis, which had been scheduled for April 27, has been postponed until after the papal election.

What Can We Do?

Father Fred Jenga, C.S.C., President of Holy Cross Family Ministries (of which Catholic Mom is a part) has encouraged us all to pray the Rosary and to pray at Mass today for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

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