In Memoriam: Pope Francis

A Newsletter Reflection from Deacon Andrew, on behalf of Father Jonathan

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28

“Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival.”
— Luke 12:37

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

It is with deep sorrow and prayerful reflection that I write to you on behalf of Father Jonathan and myself, following the sad news of the death of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, 21st April 2025, aged 88.

At this time, Father Jonathan is away from the parish for a scheduled medical procedure. I have been in contact with him this morning, and although he is resting, he has asked me to share this message with you on both of our behalf. He sends you all his love and prayers and joins with us spiritually in this time of mourning, hope, and unity.

We give thanks for the life, humility, and love of Pope Francis — a shepherd who walked with his people, who called us to mercy, and who reminded us that the Church is for all: “Todos, todos, todos” — everyone, everyone, everyone. His death, coming during the Easter Octave, speaks powerfully of his enduring hope in the Resurrection and Christ’s triumph over death.

Reflections and Resources

To help us reflect prayerfully on the life and legacy of Pope Francis, I’ve included the following resources for you to download and use personally, with family, or in your prayer groups:

🔽 Statement from Bishop Patrick McKinney (PDF)
A moving tribute from our Bishop, recalling his encounters with Pope Francis and reflecting on his humble spirit and tireless commitment to the Gospel.
“It is so poignant that Pope Francis has died this Easter Monday, just one day after wishing the world a ‘Happy Easter’.”​

🔽 Statement and Biography from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference (PDF)
A comprehensive reflection on Pope Francis’ life and mission, highlighting his care for the poor, his emphasis on mercy, and his work for Church reform.
“He visualised the Church as a ‘field-hospital’ where sinners (he included himself) encounter God’s healing love and mercy.”​

🔽 Prayers for Pope Francis and for the Church (PDF)
We invite you to pray these intentions with us — for the repose of the Holy Father and for the Church as we await the election of a new Pope.
“Grant to your Church, we pray, a new Holy Father, filled with your Holy Spirit…”​

⛪ Parish Mass Times

Mass times for the coming week are available on our Home Page & Mass Times Page.
Please be aware that these may change or be adjusted once the funeral arrangements for Pope Francis are formally announced. We will ensure you are kept informed of any additional services or diocesan guidance.

❤️ A Kindness to Offer

Father Jonathan also asked me to encourage each of us to mark this time by doing something kind — a small act of charity or prayer for someone in need — in memory of Pope Francis, who so often reminded us of the dignity of every person and the power of mercy lived in action.

Let us remain united in prayer and hope, offering our love and support to one another as we entrust Pope Francis to the eternal embrace of God.

With all our prayers & every blessing,

Andrew