A Letter from Our Bishop Regarding the Death of Pope Francis

Dear faithful of the Diocese of Oakland,

Together with the whole Church, we in the Diocese of Oakland mourn the passing of our Holy Father Pope Francis. He was unique among popes. One of a kind. He will be forever known as “The Pope of Mercy”.  He called for a “Holy Year of Mercy” in 2016 which inspired an outpouring of charitable works and led to the reconciliation of thousands of Catholics with the Lord. May Pope Francis rest in peace. And may the angels lead him into paradise.

Attached you will find a novena prayer in English and Spanish that I invite you to pray for the eternal repose of our dear Pope Francis.   After the Easter Octave and Divine Mercy Sunday,  we will be offering a special Diocesan Memorial Mass for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis in the Cathedral. More details to follow when it is scheduled.

Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him; may he rest in peace.

May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen

The Most Reverend Michael C. Barber, S.J. 

Bishop of Oakland