PETALING JAYA: Catholics across Malaysia have begun nine days of mourning for Pope Francis, following his death on Monday (April 21) at the age of 88.
In a chancery notice issued by the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, archdiocese chancellor Rev Fr Dr Clarence Devadass expressed profound sorrow and reverence, announcing that the Holy Father had been called to “the eternal embrace of the Father.”
“Pope Francis served faithfully as the Vicar of Christ on earth, dedicating his life to humility, mercy, and an unyielding devotion to the Gospel,” the statement read.
Masses celebrated during the Easter Octave across the Archdiocese will include special prayers for the repose of his soul.
A condolence book will also be made available at the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist in Kuala Lumpur, where members of the public are invited to pay their respects between 9am and 6pm daily.
Churches have been encouraged to display a portrait of the late Holy Father and to organise public prayers and devotions – including the Rosary and Eucharistic Adoration – in his memory.
“We invite all the faithful – individually, as families, and in their communities – to offer heartfelt prayers, uniting with the church worldwide as we commend his soul to God’s infinite mercy and love,” the statement read.
