Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Archbishop Liborius Nashenda has instructed all Roman Catholic priests across Namibia to hold daily masses or include intentions for the late Pope Francis in their Divine Offices until his burial.
The directive, issued on Tuesday, comes as the Catholic Church enters a mourning period following Pope Francis’s passing.
Nashenda urged the Catholic community to remain prayerful and united during this time.
“We are all shocked and saddened by his passing. Nevertheless, as people of faith, we should continue to pray for the repose of his soul unceasingly. I hereby request all priests in each parish to celebrate Mass each day or within the Divine Office where applicable, in the intention of the Holy Father until the burial day – encourage the faithful to participate in these services daily,” Nashenda added.
A memorial mass in honour of Pope Francis will be held at St.Mary’s Cathedral in Windhoek today at 18h00, presided over by the Archbishop.
He also announced that a book of condolences will be opened at the front of the cathedral, available to the public from 07h00 to 19h00 daily, starting today until the Pope’s funeral.
Nashenda called on Catholics to remain spiritually united throughout the mourning period and during the selection of the next pope.
