In Vietnamese churches, public memorial services are being held for the pontiff. On behalf of the communist authorities, a government official burnt incense in his memory at the headquarters of the Bishops' Conference. No cardinal from this lively and courageous Church will be at the conclave, but everyone remembers Francis’s suggestion that his successor will certainly go to Vietnam.
For Indian Prime Minister Modi, the pontiff “was a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage.” The President of Israel Isaac Herzog hopes “his prayers for peace in the Middle East and for the safe return of the hostages will soon be answered.” Iran also offered its condolences. “Until the end,” he “showed the world a beautiful example,” South Korean bishops write. A Mass of suffrage will be held on Wednesday morning at the Holy Sepulchre.
The pontiff died suddenly this morning at 7:35 am. Card Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity and Camerlengo of the Church, made the announcement. “He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized.” His last Urbi et Orbi message came yesterday.
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