PETALING JAYA: Catholics across Malaysia have begun a nine-day mourning period for Pope Francis following his passing on Monday at the age of 88.
In a Chancery Notice issued by the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur yesterday, Rev Fr Dr Clarence Devadass, the Chancellor of the Archdiocese, expressed profound sorrow and reverence, saying 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,” he said.
Masses celebrated during the Easter Octave across the Archdiocese will include special prayers for the repose of his soul.
A condolence book is 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,” he said.
Meanwhile, Parti Warisan has conveyed its condolences to the Catholic community over the passing of Francis.
Its president Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal said the Pope has been known for being a religious leader who promoted a message of peace, unity and harmony, especially in nations of conflict.
“In times where the world is becoming more overwhelmed with social, economic and political conflicts that threaten lives of those of lower and medium income, Pope Francis stood firm in bringing his message of tolerance,” he said in a statement.
“I would also like to convey my deepest condolences to the Catholic community in Malaysia, specifically Sabah and Sarawak,” he added.
Shafie hopes Francis’ legacy in promoting peace and tolerance will be continued by the future generation.
All Catholic churches in Sabah are expected to hold special masses over Francis’ passing, but the dates have yet to be set.
In Rome, a nine-day official mourning known as the Novendiales is observed.
