The Vatican marked the first anniversary of Pope Francis' death
A special memorial Mass was held at the Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican to mark the first anniversary of the death of Pope Francis. The service was presided over by Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Luigi Travaglino.
This was reported by Vatican News.
The Mass was held in the chapel of the residence where the pontiff lived and worked throughout his pontificate. In his homily, the archbishop emphasized Pope Francis’ spiritual legacy and his dedication to service despite physical limitations.
It was noted that the pontiff maintained an active work schedule and continued his apostolic journeys, demonstrating “apostolic courage” and devotion to his mission.
Believers were also invited to turn their thoughts to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where, in accordance with Pope Francis’s wishes, he was buried next to the Chapel of Mary.
Tributes to the pontiff continue throughout the day. A Rosary prayer and a funeral Mass, to be led by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, are also scheduled at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
Pope Francis, who died this past April, bequeathed a “significant sum of money” for the purchase of ambulances for Ukraine.
As a reminder, a few weeks before Pope Francis’ death, the Vatican press office also reported that he had donated four ambulances to Ukraine, “equipped with all the necessary medical instruments to save lives.”
