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Catholic Church in Ghana Bids Farewell to Pope Francis at Requiem Mass

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A special Requiem Mass was held for the late Pope Francis on Friday, 25th April 25, 2025 at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Adabraka, Accra, attended by many people from all walks of life who prayed for the soul of the beloved Pope.

The Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, the Most Rev. Julien Kabore, presided over the Mass, concelebrated by members of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference and scores of Priests.

The Nuncio led the special prayers and gave a touching message in a homily about the life of Pope Francis, saying he lived a life of love, humility, and service.

Archbishop Kabore urged the mourners to live by the values that Pope Francis stood for, which are love, mercy, and peace.

In attendance to show great respect for the memory of Pope Francis were the Religious, Government representatives led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa; members of the Diplomatic Corps, Leaders of other faiths, Papal Knights and Dames, members of various Societies and groups in the Church in Ghana

The GCBC paid heartfelt tribute to the memory of late Pope Francis, honouring his 12 years of humble and transformative leadership.

In a message, the Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, President of the Conference, described Pope Francis as “a pilgrim, a pastor, and a prophet,” whose papacy was “a bold, gospel-infused witness in a world parched for authenticity.”

The Ghanaian Bishops praised Pope Francis’ commitment to the poor, his advocacy for peace in Africa, and his passionate call for care of the environment, saying, “You did not just write Laudato Si’, you lived it.”

Highlighting his spirit of humility and reform, the bishops recalled how Pope Francis chose simplicity over grandeur and always championed the dignity of every human being. “The world is more tender because you walked in it,” they added.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first Latin American and Jesuit Pope. He was elected on March 13, 2013, and chose the name “Francis” to reflect humility and care for the poor.

He focused his papacy on mercy, social justice, and protecting the environment.

His major works include Laudato Si’ and Fratelli Tutti. He was loved worldwide for his compassion and leadership.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first Jesuit and South American pope, serving from 2013 until his death on April 21, 2025.

Known for his humility, simplicity, and outreach to marginalized groups, he led the Catholic Church through a period of significant change and reform.

He emphasized the importance of a church that is “poor and for the poor,” advocating for social justice and environmentalism.

Born in Buenos Aires in Argentina on 17th December 1936, to Italian immigrant parents. He studied chemistry and philosophy before entering the Jesuit Order and ordained a priest in 1969.

 

He served as Provincial of the Jesuits in Argentina (1973-1979). He became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998. He was made a cardinal by John Paul II in 2001. He was elected pope in 2013, becoming the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Americas. He chose the name Francis in honour of St. Francis of Assisi.

He was known for his humble lifestyle, simple dress, and his willingness to live in a modest apartment within the Vatican instead of the Apostolic Palace. He emphasized the importance of social justice, environmental protection, and inclusivity.

He led the church through a period of reform, including addressing the clergy sex abuse crisis. He Promoted ecumenical dialogue and sought to build bridges with people of other faiths. He made historic apologies to survivors of clergy sexual abuse and to Canada’s Indigenous peoples. His papacy is remembered for its focus on the poor, the marginalized, and the environment.

By Celestine Edem Gbologah//Newswatchgh.com

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