The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos held a solemn memorial mass on Wednesday to mourn the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 following complications from a stroke. Led by Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins, the service took place at the Holy Cross Cathedral and featured prayers, hymns, scripture readings, and a public condolence register. The event drew clergy, laity, and government representatives in a unified tribute to the late pontiff.
Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church from 2013 until his death, was widely respected for his humility, his focus on mercy and forgiveness, and his commitment to global social justice. Speaking during the homily, Reverend Father Melvis Mayaki highlighted the Pope’s spiritual legacy: “Throughout his pontificate, he reminded us that God is a God of mercy. He spoke for the poor, the displaced, and the forgotten.”
Archbishop Martins called for continued prayer and unity, saying, “We mourn, but we also celebrate a life lived in service to God and humanity. We ask the Holy Spirit to guide the Church as we await a new Holy Father who will continue his mission.”
The memorial was part of a global wave of mourning across Catholic communities, reflecting the profound influence Pope Francis had across continents, particularly in the Global South, where he advocated for greater inclusion and dialogue.
