Message from Bishop Raimo Goyarrola on the death of Pope Francis
Dear Catholics and all people of good will,
Today we have received the news that Pope Francis has died. Earlier this spring, we already followed his struggle with serious respiratory problems, from which he did not have time to fully recover.
In the midst of sorrow, however, a deep sense of gratitude arises for the way the Pope led the universal Church as a caring and loving shepherd from the year 2013 onward. His central message to all Catholics and to the whole world was undoubtedly one of trust, mercy, and hope. He consistently defended the poor and the marginalized, reaching out to the peripheries of the world. In all things, he sought to promote human rights and peace, and to build bridges between religions and peoples. His ambitious goal was to make the Church synodal: a Church that walks alongside the people, that is participatory and inclusive. Only in this way can the Good News of Jesus Christ – the Gospel – become accessible to all.
Dear brothers and sisters, today I have asked that a Mass be celebrated in all parishes tomorrow, Tuesday (22 April 2025), at 6 p.m. for Pope Francis. I kindly ask you to participate, either in person or in spirit, and thus accompany Pope Francis with your prayers on his journey to the Father’s house.
Furthermore, in keeping with the Vatican’s official nine-day mourning period, I ask that each parish offer the opportunity for silent prayer for the soul of Pope Francis, for example in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.
Dear Pope Francis, rest in peace.
Holy Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for him.
Saint Joseph, Protector of the Church, pray for him.
Saint Henry and Blessed Hemming, pray for him.
+ Raimo Goyarrola
Bishop of Helsinki