†

Pope Francis passed away this morning, after appearing at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square yesterday to wish “Happy Easter” to thousands of pilgrims. 

There will be many words spoken about this amazing and humble Pope. For now let us pray for the Roman Catholic church, especially for our brothers and sisters in Christ here in Spain, and all who will mourn his loss. We pray too for those with responsibility to find his successor.  

Columnist Angela Tilby, writing in 2017 in the Church Times, said: “To die in Holy Week or Eastertide is a blessing, and perhaps a consolation to those who are left”.

God our Father,
Your power brings us to birth,
Your providence guides our lives,
and by Your command we return to dust.

Lord, those who die still live in Your presence,
their lives change but do not end.
We pray for Francis, and for those that have known and loved him.
We pray too for your church here on earth, and in heaven. 

In company with Christ,
Who died and now lives,
may they rejoice in Your kingdom,
where all our tears are wiped away.

Unite us together again in one family,
to sing Your praise forever and ever.

Amen.