Shillong: The Cathedral Church in Laitumkhrah will observe a solemn Requiem Mass today at 5:30 pm, dedicated to the memory of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21st. This service comes as part of the Shillong Archdiocese’s response to the pontiff’s demise.
Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh of Shillong has extended an invitation to all priests, religious members, and lay faithful to participate in the Requiem Mass. “We invite Priests, Religious and lay faithful to come and pray that our merciful Lord may grant Pope Francis eternal rest,” he stated in an official communication, emphasizing the community’s collective prayer for the departed leader.
Earlier in the evening, the Catholic Association of Shillong Archdiocese gathered at Bishop’s House for a condolence meeting, where they paid tribute to the late Pope. Ronnie Lyngdoh, Vice President of the association, indicated that further directives from the Archbishop would be issued in the coming days.
In a formal statement, Archbishop Lyngdoh lauded Pope Francis as “a true shepherd of God’s people, a champion for the cause of the poor and the marginalised.” He highlighted the Pope’s profound compassion for vulnerable populations and his significant contributions to environmental advocacy through the influential encyclical “Laudato Si’.”
Following the Pope’s death, the Archdiocese has implemented a series of directives. These include the tolling of church bells as a sign of mourning, the display of Pope Francis’ portrait in churches and institutions, the offering of special Masses, and the closure of all Catholic educational institutions on the day of the funeral.
During the period of sede vacante, the time between a Pope’s death and the election of a successor, the Pope’s name will be omitted from the Eucharistic Prayer. Additionally, the Archbishop has requested that all celebrations within the Archdiocese be postponed during this time of mourning.
The Shillong Archdiocese has placed itself “under the protection and intercession of Mother Mary” during this period of transition, seeking spiritual guidance and support as they await the election of a new pontiff.
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