Pope Leo XIV led a poignant Requiem Mass to honor the memory of the late Pope Francis, as well as Cardinals and Bishops who passed away throughout the previous year.

In a solemn and heartfelt ceremony, Pope Leo prayed that their souls “might be washed from every stain” and that they “may shine like stars in the sky,” echoing the eternal light of Christ.

During the traditional Mass, which was offered in suffrage for the souls of these beloved church leaders, Pope Leo expressed a deep longing for their continued spiritual guidance.

He spoke of the hope that their prayers, now joined with the heavenly choir, might “reach us, still pilgrims on earth, in the silence of prayer: ‘Hope in God.’”

The Holy Father’s prayer was particularly tender for the soul of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, shortly after opening the Holy Door and imparting the Easter Blessing to Rome and the world.

With great affection, Pope Leo remembered his predecessor’s final act of hope and grace, reaffirming his legacy as a beacon of Easter’s promise.

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