Just as the rush of the Easter weekend came to an end, we heard the news that Pope Francis had died and this has led to an extraordinary few weeks in the Church and in our parishes. We had a Requiem Mass for Pope Francis on Tuesday 22nd April, which despite only being organised in 24 hours from the Pope’s death, was very well attended and a great occasion for us to give thanks for his ministry. Some parishioners also joined Fr Andrew to watch the Funeral Mass of Pope Francis in Our Lady’s Hall, whilst Fr Dom represented our parishes in Rome itself, already being there on pilgrimage with the Westminster Youth Ministry.
There was much discussion in the following 10 days about the Conclave before we then heard the news of the quick election of Pope Leo XIV on Thursday 8th May. We now keep him in our prayers as he begins his Papacy.
Faithful God,
You guide us on the path of life
and your goodness is our constant companion.
Be with our new Shepherd, Pope Leo XIV,
in his service of the Church.
Fill him with the power of your Spirit,
the peace of your presence
and the compassion of Christ.
May he walk with you,
in wisdom and humility,
and lead us, together with all God’s people,
to embody your love for the world.
Amen.