From Ifeoma Ejiofor
The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria on behalf of the President of the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of Nigeria, Most Rev Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji has announced the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.
Pope Francis according to the Catholic Secretariat died on Easter Monday, 21st April, 2025 at 7.35am.
The statement was signed by the Secretary General, Rev Fr Michael A. Banjo made available to journalists on Monday.
The statement reads,”It is not without spiritual significance that the Holy Father passed during the Easter session; a time when the church proclaims with joy, the victory of Christ over death.
“His return to the Lord in this sacred season offers us a consoling reminder of the christian hope in the resurrection and promise of eternal life.
“Pope Francis born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936, served the church with humility, courage and a deep love for the poor and excluded. Elected on 13th March, 2013 for pontificate was marked by a strong emphasis on mercy, justice and care for His creation.
“He was a tireless advocate for migrants and refugees, promoted a more synodal Church rooted in listening and shared responsibility and called for a culture of kindness and human fraternity. He also advanced interreligious dialogues, fostering peace and mutual understanding among people of different faiths.
The statement encouraged the Bishops to organize Diocesan Eucharistic Celebrations for the repose of the soul of the departed Pope while all Catholics are requested for the same intention during the Divine Mercy devotion at 3.00 O’clock.
The statement also called to remembrance that during the period of interregnum, the part on the Pope at the Eucharistic prayer be omitted.
The Catholic Bishop’s Conference also prayed for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis.