Pope Francis Enters Eternal Rest: A Shepherd’s Journey Comes to Peace

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

With hearts heavy yet filled with hope, we share the sorrowful news of the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who departed this life on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died peacefully at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta, following a recent illness.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was elected the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church on March 13, 2013. As the first Jesuit and first Latin American pontiff, his papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and a profound commitment to the marginalized. He tirelessly advocated for the poor, emphasized mercy, and called for environmental stewardship.

His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, where he imparted his blessing to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square. Even in his final days, he remained a shepherd to his flock, embodying the love and grace of Christ.

In this time of mourning, we are reminded of the words of St. Paul: "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also who sleep in Jesus will God bring with him" (1 Thessalonians 4:14, Douay-Rheims). Let us find solace in the resurrection of our Lord, which Pope Francis so fervently preached and believed.

We invite all parishioners to join us in prayer for the repose of Pope Francis's soul.

Novena in Memory of Pope Francis

May the Lord grant Pope Francis eternal rest, and may perpetual light shine upon him. Let us continue to uphold his teachings by living lives of humility, service, and love.