Following the sad news of the recent death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, we are encouraged to continue to unite with all the People of God in praying for the eternal rest of his soul. There are a number of opportunities to come together as the faithful of Melbourne to remember and pray for the late Pope Emeritus, including the following:
Requiem Mass
The Requiem Mass for the late Pope Emeritus will be presided over by Pope Francis in St Peter’s Square this Thursday 5 January at 7.30pm Melbourne time (9.30am Rome time). The funeral will be available for viewing via the Vatican News English YouTube Channel and on the Vatican News Facebook page.
A booklet for the Requiem Mass has been published and includes English translations.
Parish-based commemorations
Parishes have been encouraged to organise opportunities for parishioners to come together to pray for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, as well as remembering him at Masses. In particular, Archbishop Peter A Comensoli has asked that each faith community offer a Mass for the repose of the soul of the late Pontiff. Please check the website of your local parish in the coming days and weeks for details.
Holy Hour, St Patrick’s Cathedral
A Holy Hour to remember the life of the late Pope Emeritus and to pray for the repose of his soul will be held this Thursday 5 January, from 6.30 to 7.30pm at St Patrick’s Cathedral.
‘Month’s Mind’ Mass, St Patrick’s Cathedral
A memorial Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will be celebrated by Archbishop Peter A Comensoli at St Patrick’s Cathedral on Sunday 29 January at 6.30pm—approximately one month after his death. All are welcome.
A prayer for the soul of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
Father, eternal shepherd, hear the prayers of your people for your servant Benedict, who governed your Church with love.
In your mercy, bring him with the flock once entrusted to his care to the reward you have promised your faithful servants.
May he who faithfully administered the mysteries of your forgiveness and love on earth, rejoice with you for ever in heaven.
In your wise and loving care, you made your servant teacher of all your Church. He did the work of Christ on earth.
May your Son welcome him into eternal glory.
May your servant whom you appointed high priest of your flock be counted now among the priests in the life of your kindgom.
Give your servant the reward of eternal happiness and let your mercy win for us the gift of your life and love.
We entrust your servant to your mercy with faith and confidence. In the human family he was an instrument of your peace and love.
May he rejoice in those gifts for ever with your saints.
Amen.
