The Archdiocese of Freetown has announced a solemn memorial Mass to honor the life and ministry of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
The Mass will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 28, at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Freetown. His Excellency Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, Metropolitan Archbishop of Freetown, extends an invitation to all clergy, religious communities, Catholic institutions, and the lay faithful to participate in this tribute.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, made history as the first Latin American pontiff. He led the Catholic Church for over 12 years, emphasizing humility, social justice, and outreach to the marginalized. His final public appearance was during Easter Sunday celebrations in St. Peter’s Square. He died the following morning at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, due to a cerebral stroke and subsequent cardiocirculatory collapse.
The Vatican has scheduled Pope Francis’ funeral for Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square. In accordance with his wishes for a modest ceremony, he will be interred at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, rather than the traditional Vatican crypts.
The Archdiocese of Freetown’s memorial Mass serves as a local opportunity for the faithful to express gratitude and reflect on Pope Francis’ enduring impact on the global Church.
The Archbishop urges all members of the Catholic community to attend and honor the late pontiff’s legacy.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
