IN news that shocked the world, head of the Catholic Church Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, from a stroke and heart failure, with the local Catholic Church joining billions around the world in prayer.
Dean of the Broken Hill Cathedral Parish Father Vincent Kamba said the church is dedicating nine days of prayer for the late Pope Francis.
“Following the passing on of Pope Francis, we have a responsibility to pray for him as a church,” Father Kamba said.
“He is a symbol of unity for the whole Catholic community in the world.
“We’re dedicating nine days of prayer for him, beginning Tuesday, April 22.
“We had mass Tuesday morning at 10am, Wednesday mass will be at 9.10am at the Cathedral, 5pm Thursday at the St Peter and Paul Church Murton Street, 8am Friday at the Cathedral and Saturday 5pm at the Cathedral.”
Father Kamba said all can remember to say a prayer for Pope Francis, even from work or home.
“The Holy Father has been calling out for peace in the world, care for the poor, and marginalised of the world,” he said.
“Opening doors and windows for all people, even those who seem to be left out.
“He has been preaching hope even where people seem to have no hope, especially in the war-torn regions.
“Let us all remember to say a prayer for him.”
The Pope’s funeral is set for Saturday, April 26, 10am local time at St Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Rome.