Catholics in Montreal, Quebec, Mourn the Loss of Pope Francis with Requiem Mass and Eucharistic Adoration Celebrated by Archbishop Lépine
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The Archdiocese of Montreal mourns the death of Pope Francis.On Monday, April 21, 2025, we received the devastating news from the Holy See: Pope Francis has died. This news has left us with great sadness and mourning. Archbishop Christian invites all the priests and faithful of the Archdiocese of Montreal to celebrate the Holy Mass in memory of Pope Francis on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 5 p.m.
in the Cathedral of Mary Queen of the World. Yes, we have just had a truly magnificent experience: an unforgettable Mass on Tuesday evening. Archbishop Christian Lépine presided with passion and dedication, inflaming our hearts and awakening our souls. Many faithful responded enthusiastically to Archbishop Christian’s invitation, showing extraordinary commitment and involvement. It was a moment of pure grace, an explosion of unity and a vibrant community of prayer to honor the memory of Pope Francis. Archbishop Christian Lépine confidently highlighted the significant legacy that Pope Francis has left us. Our legacy is based on encounter and mercy. We must respond with passion to the Pope’s call. We must affirm human dignity, promote peace and walk together in hope.
The Mass was a very powerful moment, and the prayer vigil that followed at 6 p.m. was also incredible. The young people of the Archdiocese of Montreal gave their all, with great commitment and passion, and led us in an unforgettable spiritual experience.
It’s an incredible feeling. It was a touching moment and it was clear to everyone that some people were crying. I heard some of the faithful say in a sad tone, "The Pope of the poor and vulnerable is gone. Go in peace, we will love you forever."
In this time of mourning and in communion with the universal Church, Archbishop Christian Lépine wholeheartedly encourages us to follow specific liturgical instructions to help us all stay united. It is absolutely essential that an image of Pope Francis be placed in the sanctuary of each parish church. The nine-day mourning period (Novendiales) is also crucial. It will run from April 21 evening to April 30, 2025. During this period, we will come together in prayer with beautiful Requiem Masses every day to honor the memory of Pope Francis. Archbishop Christian is thrilled to encourage parishes to keep their churches open while waiting for further instructions. This will allow the faithful to pray in silence and recollection to pay tribute to the beloved Pope Francis.
A regular contributor to Catholic News World: Fr. Jean-Marie Kabesa Bilwala The Episcopal Vicar for the French-speaking deaneries in the western part of Montreal.
It’s an incredible feeling. It was a touching moment and it was clear to everyone that some people were crying. I heard some of the faithful say in a sad tone, "The Pope of the poor and vulnerable is gone. Go in peace, we will love you forever."
In this time of mourning and in communion with the universal Church, Archbishop Christian Lépine wholeheartedly encourages us to follow specific liturgical instructions to help us all stay united. It is absolutely essential that an image of Pope Francis be placed in the sanctuary of each parish church. The nine-day mourning period (Novendiales) is also crucial. It will run from April 21 evening to April 30, 2025. During this period, we will come together in prayer with beautiful Requiem Masses every day to honor the memory of Pope Francis. Archbishop Christian is thrilled to encourage parishes to keep their churches open while waiting for further instructions. This will allow the faithful to pray in silence and recollection to pay tribute to the beloved Pope Francis.
A regular contributor to Catholic News World: Fr. Jean-Marie Kabesa Bilwala The Episcopal Vicar for the French-speaking deaneries in the western part of Montreal.
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