The Catholic Church Archdiocese of Monrovia is inviting all Christians and ‘religious’ to a holy mass for the eternal repose of the late Pope Francis’ soul today, Saturday, April 26 at 3p.m at the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
According to some religious scholars, since the early days of the Catholic Church, it’s always been important to honor the dead. While most hope to spend the remainder of eternity in Heaven, not everyone earns this privilege. Still, Catholic followers are encouraged to pray for the repose of the soul. The repose of the soul literally means the sleeping of the soul, in other words, the eternal resting of the soul. Whether the soul of the deceased remains trapped in purgatory or even hell, may they find peace in their love of God.
So, the Catholic Church Metropolitan Archbishop of Monrovia, Most Reverend Dr. Gabriel Blamo Jubwe’s invitation to all says, “This Mass will be offered for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul, in thanksgiving for his ministry, and in petition for the guidance of the Church he so loving served.
“I urge all to come in pilgrimage of prayer, that together we may commend our late Holy Father to the mercy of God and entrust the See of Peter to Divine Providence.”
The late Holy Father of the 1.4 billion Catholics is expected to be buried today follow his passing on Easter Monday.
Politicians Pay Respect
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai was one of the first Liberian politicians to offer condolence to the Catholic Church in Liberia and at large.
“It is with profound sorrow that I have learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis in the very early hours of Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. On behalf of the Government and people of Liberia, I extend our deepest condolences to the Catholic Church, the Holy See, and the global Catholic community during this time of mourning.
Pope Francis was a beacon of humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the marginalized. His Papacy was marked by a relentless pursuit of peace, social justice, environmental stewardship, and interfaith dialogue. He championed the causes of the poor, advocated for the protection of our planet, and worked tirelessly to bridge divides among peoples of different faiths and backgrounds.”
President Boakai, who visited the Vatican on October 18, 2024, recalled his meeting with the late Pope. “Our discussions on global challenges, including migration and social equity, underscored his deep understanding and concern for the issues facing our world today. His insight and guidance during that meeting will remain a source of inspiration for me and for the people of Liberia.”
The Liberian leader hopes that the Pope’s legacy will continue to inspire compassion, inclusivity, and an enduring commitment to the pursuit of the common good.
Embattled House Speaker Koffa
Another politician and a staunch Catholic, the embattled Speaker of the House of Representatives, Counselor Jonathan Fonati Koffa, described the late pontiff as a “Shepherd of Peace”.
“It is with profound sorrow that I received the news of the home-going His Holiness Pope Francis. As a devout Catholic and a public servant, I mourn the loss of a global spiritual leader whose humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the service of humanity inspired millions across the world.
“I had the distinct honor of meeting His Holiness during my visit to the Vatican in October. That moment will forever remain etched in my heart. His gentle spirit and wise words reflected the true essence of Christ’s love — a love that transcends boundaries and speaks to the soul of every believer.
Pope Francis’ legacy will live on in the hearts of the faithful and in the many lives touched by his ministry of peace, justice, and mercy.”
What’s Next for the Church?
There are reports that the late Pope was the first pope to call for inclusivity. The world’s 1.4 billion Catholics now wait to see whether the next Pope will follow in the late Pope’s footsteps or revert to older traditions or find a balance in between.
