A prayer service for Pope Francis, who passed away on 21 April, was held on the afternoon of 22 April at Saint Mary’s Cathedral in Yangon.
The ceremony was led by Cardinal Charles Bo, head of the Catholic Church in Myanmar and Archbishop of Yangon, along with Catholic clergies who offered prayers for the late Pope. Catholic devotees, as well as ambassadors and officials from South Korea, Brazil, Timor-Leste, Switzerland, Italy, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Israel, were also in attendance.
At the Jubilee Door of Saint Mary’s Cathedral, where the prayer service was held, a space was arranged for mourners to lay wreath tributes in memory of the Pope. A condolence book was also Pope. A condolence book was also made available for attendees to sign. In addition, some of the late Pope’s personal belongings were put on display
“We used to meet often in Rome and had friendly discussions about Myanmar,” said Cardinal Charles Bo. “Though I am deeply saddened, I truly believe that he is now free from suffering and has found peace.”
Upon the death or resignation of a Pope, the Vatican begins a formal mourning period followed by the Conclave – a secret ballot through which a new Pope is elected. The candidate who receives the highest number of votes will assume the papal office.
It is reported that Cardinal Charles Bo, Archbishop of Yangon and President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, is among the 15 cardinals eligible to be considered for the papacy. He remains the first and only Cardinal from Myanmar. —ASH/KNN
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