SWFL Catholics begin nine days of mourning following death of Pope Francis
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The Diocese of Venice has issued a statement following the death of Pope Francis.
“Today, the Catholic Church throughout the world mourns the death of Pope Francis who passed away at 7:35 a.m. Rome time. Pope Francis served as Bishop of Rome from March 13, 2013, until his death. He was 88 years old,” the statement opens.
A letter regarding the passing of Pope Francis from the Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida, was released this morning.
“The Diocese of Venice in Florida will observe the traditional Novemdiales - nine days of mourning - with daily Masses and prayers offered at Parishes throughout the Diocese for the repose of the Pope's soul. Additionally during this time, all Diocesan Catholic Schools will incorporate age-appropriate discussions about this momentous occasion in the life of the Church and include moments of silence and special prayers for the Pope,” the letter states.
Parish bells throughout the diocese will toll at noon on Tuesday, April 22, upon official announcement of the Pope's death. A traditional funeral toll calls for the bell to be rung once for each year of the Pope's life: 88 times, the letter reads.
A Mass for Pope Francis will be celebrated in the Diocese of Venice by Bishop Dewane on Thursday, April 24, at 1 p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road in Venice.
“All are welcome,” the letter states.
“Regarding the Election of a New Pope, this will not be addressed until the close of the Novemdiales. After the nine-day mourning period for the Pope, prayers for the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the Conclave and special Masses will be offered.
“As a Catholic community united in Christ, As a Catholic community united in Christ, we are profoundly saddened by the loss of Pope Francis. Together we pray:
"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen."