Dominican Church honors Pope Francis with memorial Mass

Santo Domingo.- On Thursday, April 24, the Apostolic Nunciature and the Dominican Episcopal Conference (CED) held a memorial Mass for the soul of Pope Francis at the Primate Cathedral of the Americas. The ceremony was attended by Vice President Raquel Peña, diplomats, clergy, nuns, and laypeople.

In his homily, Apostolic Nuncio Monsignor Piergiorgio Bertoldi reflected on the legacy of Pope Francis’ 12-year pontificate, emphasizing his devotion to God’s mercy, compassion, and solidarity with the marginalized. Bertoldi described the Pope as a prophetic voice for peace and a shepherd who lived closely with the people.

A book of condolences was made available by the Nunciature and will remain open for public signing on Friday, April 25. The funeral Mass for Pope Francis will take place in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday, April 26, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista. Dominican representatives attending the funeral in Vatican City include President Luis Abinader, First Lady Raquel Arbaje, and Archbishops Héctor Rodríguez and Francisco Ozoria.