Catholic archdiocese of Lagos declares nine-day mourning for Pope Francis’ death

The Catholic archdiocese of Lagos has announced a slew of solemn events to mourn the passing of Pope Francis.

The head of the Catholic church died from stroke on Easter Monday aged 88.

In a circular on Tuesday, Alfred Adewale Martins, archbishop of the metropolitan See of Lagos, thanked God for “the pope’s life of committed service and personal sacrifice”.

He said Pope Francis made remarkable contributions to the life of the church until his death.

Martins said to honour the late pontiff, the archdiocese would hold a holy mass for the repose of his soul on April 23, 2025 at noon, at the Holy Cross Cathedral.

The archbishop called on parishioners to participate in the mass in large numbers, describing it as “an act of love and devotion” to the late pope, who served as the Vicar of Christ on earth.

“A condolence register will be opened at the Holy Cross Cathedral beginning Tuesday, April 22, for priests, religious, and lay faithful to express their sympathies,” the circular reads.

“In recognition of the Pope’s death, the Archdiocese has also declared a nine-day mourning period from Monday, April 21 through Wednesday, April 29, 2025. During this time, papal flags in all parishes are to be flown at half-mast.

“Photographs of Pope Francis may be displayed in Churches with flowers placed in front of them. Special prayers and petitions for the repose of his soul are to be included in all Masses.

“The faithful are also urged to recite the Prayer during a Sede Vacante at the end of Masses and in personal or family devotions, invoking God’s guidance for the Church and the election of a new Pope.”

The archbishop encouraged the faithful to pray for the church during this transitional period.

“Pope Francis, known for his humility, pastoral heart, and unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalized, leaves behind a legacy that has reshaped the modern Church,” he added.

“His teachings on mercy, environmental care, synodality, and inclusivity resonated deeply with Catholics across the globe.”