Local church talks passing of Pope Francis, what to expect in coming days

JACKSON, Tenn. — After the news of Pope Francis’ passing, we reached out to one local church to learn about the steps that the Catholic Church will take to honor the pope.

Head Pastor of St. Mary’s Catholic Church Father David Graham shares how his parish will continue during this mourning period.

“You lose a member of your family, you’re grieving, you’re sorrowful, you’re mournful. We’re happy for him because we believe he’s going to a place of eternal peace. But, we always pray for the repose of his soul, we pray that God will be merciful to him,” said Fr. Graham.

After dealing with some health issues, the first pope from the Americas, Pope Francis, died in the early morning on April 21. Fr. Graham shares how students of St. Mary’s honored him.

“This morning, the children of Saint Mary School prayed for the pope. We had a special prayer service here in the church, they prayed the rosary,” said Fr. Graham.

Saint Mary’s will continue to honor Pope Francis during worship services. Father Graham shares what happens during preparation time for Pope Francis’ funeral.

“When a pope dies it is an interregnum and it’s period of time where the church prays for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis and praise and thanksgiving for his ministry among us. Then pray and praise for the next pope” said Fr. Graham.

As of now, it is unknown who will be the next pope. However, a system is set in place.

“It’s all the cardinals of the church who are under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. They gather in what’s called a conclave and vote for [and] decide who they feel God is calling to be our next pope” said Fr. Graham.

Live coverage of Pope Francis’ funeral will take place Saturday, April 26 at 3 a.m.

“It’s called a funeral Mass. It will be televised throughout the whole world. Everybody will join in prayer at that time. It will happen there in the square of Saint Peters and they’ll be millions of people gathered there. And many millions of people around the world that will participate in that” said Father Graham.

Fr. Graham shares that those who want to pay their respects to Pope Francis can pray for him and those who are in mourning at this time.

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