With deep sorrow, we join the universal Church in mourning the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who returned to the Lord after faithfully shepherding the Catholic Church since 2013. His humility, compassion, and commitment to the marginalized touched the hearts of millions and left an indelible mark on the world.

In this time of mourning, we at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church invite all the faithful to join in prayer for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul. We encourage the praying of traditional devotions such as the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be, asking God to grant him eternal rest and peace.

• Requiem Mass (Mass for the Dead): Monday, April 28th at 6:00 PM                                       at St. Charles Borromeo and St. Mary's Assumption
• Special Rosary: Wednesday, April 30th at 8:25 AM at St. Charles Borromeo
• Our Lady of Perpetual Help Devotion: Wednesday, April 30th at 11:25 AM (with special prayers for Pope Francis’ soul)

 We also invite parishioners to pray the Rosary, either at home or in the church, as a special offering for the soul of Pope Francis. At St. Charles, daily rosaries are prayed before each Mass, and we welcome everyone to join us in this beautiful tradition of intercession.

As a sign of respect and remembrance, a portrait of Pope Francis will be displayed in the baptistry beside the Divine Mercy image. We encourage you to pause in prayer and remembrance during your visit.

In communion with the Diocese of Kalamazoo, we also invite all parishioners to attend a Requiem Mass (Mass for the Dead) celebrated by Bishop Edward M. Lohse for the repose of Pope Francis:

️ Tuesday, April 29, 2025
 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
 St. Augustine Cathedral, Kalamazoo

For more information and updates from the Diocese, please visit: The Diocese of Kalamazoo Website

Let us unite in hope and faith, trusting in God’s mercy, as we commend Pope Francis to the arms of our loving Savior.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

---

Additional Resources

Remembering Pope Francis 

Guide to How a Pope is Elected