Catholics across Zimbabwe will hold masses for Pope Francis, who passed away Monday. The first service happens on Thursday evening, led by the Apostolic Nuncio. The Pope died at age 88 from a stroke that caused heart failure. His funeral takes place on Saturday after planning meetings by the cardinals.
Father Travis Moyo told NewsDay he felt sad but hopeful because Easter celebrates life. He called the Pope a faithful shepherd who guided many people during his 12 years at the papacy. President Mnangagwa sent condolences to Cardinal Kevin Farrell at the Vatican. He described the Pope as devoted to God with a voice that inspired spiritual awareness.
The Pope chose burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore instead of the Vatican grounds. He often prayed there before leaving or returning from trips abroad. The church stands about four kilometers from the Vatican. Francis visited during the COVID pandemic to pray for its end. A Byzantine icon of Mary decorates the left nave, where golden roses sit among candles.
Father Travis Moyo told NewsDay he felt sad but hopeful because Easter celebrates life. He called the Pope a faithful shepherd who guided many people during his 12 years at the papacy. President Mnangagwa sent condolences to Cardinal Kevin Farrell at the Vatican. He described the Pope as devoted to God with a voice that inspired spiritual awareness.
The Pope chose burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore instead of the Vatican grounds. He often prayed there before leaving or returning from trips abroad. The church stands about four kilometers from the Vatican. Francis visited during the COVID pandemic to pray for its end. A Byzantine icon of Mary decorates the left nave, where golden roses sit among candles.
