It is with deep sorrow, that the diocese acknowledges the passing of our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, who returned to the house of the Father on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His life was a testament to the values of the Gospel, lived with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially towards the poorest and most marginalized.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first non-European pontiff in nearly 1,300 years. His papacy was marked by a humble and forward-looking approach, working tirelessly to soften the Church's stance on social issues and to bring the message of Christ to all corners of the world. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with a profound sense of compassion and inclusivity.
As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his life and the indelible mark he left on the Church and the world. We are grateful for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, and we commend his soul to the infinite merciful love of the Triune God.
Let us come together in prayer and reflection, honoring his memory and continuing his mission of love and service.
Pope Francis smiles as he answers a question from a journalist aboard his flight back to Rome Sept. 13, 2024, after visiting Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and Singapore. It was his 45th and longest foreign trip.
The Diocese Remembers and Prays for Pope Francis
Memorial Masses for Pope Francis this Sunday
Bishop Steve extends an invitation for all to gather for a Memorial Mass at 11.00am this Sunday 27 April to give thanks for the life and ministry of Pope Francis.
In recognition of Pope Francis’ great love for young people a second Memorial Mass hosted by Vinnies will be offered at 7.00pm. All young people and those who are young at heart are encouraged to attend this Mass.
Bishop Steve will celebrate both Masses at the Cathedral of St Patrick & St Joseph.
Parking information can be found here: https://www.stpatricks.org.nz/about-the-cathedral/parking/
In his own words
A Prayer for Pope Francis
Let us pray in thanksgiving for the life and legacy of our beloved shepherd.
Loving God, we give you thanks for the life and ministry of Pope Francis.
In him you gave us a man of humility,
one who valued listening to the voices of the voiceless,
compassion for the undervalued,
mercy for sinners and justice for the oppressed.
You gave us a pastor
who led through the example of his love
for your people and your creation,
who was not ashamed to smell like his sheep.
Comfort all who mourn his passing,
and may the angels now lead him to paradise with you
to rest in your peace for eternity.
May your Spirit guide the future successor to your servant Francis
to continue the work you have begun through him,
for the good of the Church and the world.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen
With thanks to Liturgical Press