GRATEFUL FOR THE GIFT OF THE PAPACY

Since 26 April 2025, our community at the Church of St. Thomas in Kuantan has gathered for the Novendiales- the nine days of mourning following Pope Francis’s death. We have been holding daily Memorial Masses, and praying for his soul. We will conclude this period of mourning on Sunday evening, 4 May 2025 - gathering at the grotto for the Rosary, led by our Parish Youth, to express our love and gratitude for Pope Francis's life and mission.

These days, I have been reflecting on Pope Francis’ encyclicals and key teachings in my homilies. His deep love for the Church, concern for our planet, compassion for the poor, and heartfelt devotion to Christ have truly inspired our faith journey. His legacy lives on in our everyday decisions to stay connected to the Church. While we feel sorrow over his passing, we are grateful for the gifts of his papacy.

Many of you have come faithfully, offering your time and hearts in the Church's prayers, the Rosary, Holy Hour, litanies, novenas and other forms of prayer. Your presence has been a testament to our unity as a parish family, and to the strength of our faith during times of loss and transition. Your faithfulness inspires me. A huge thank you to each of you who joined us for these nine days of prayer. However, our prayers don’t stop here – there is always more to come!

The College of Cardinals has requested the entire Church to pray for them, as they prepare for their sacred responsibility. We have been keeping the Cardinals in our thoughts and prayers as they get ready to gather in conclave, to elect the next successor of St. Peter. All 135 Cardinal electors – representing diverse nations and cultures across the globe – will enter the Conclave on 7 May 2025 at the Sistine Chapel, to choose the 267th Pontiff. Unfortunately, two Cardinals can’t make it this time due to health reasons - so there will be 133 voters participating. Let’s keep them all in our prayers.

The Church is currently in a period of transition: a mourning period following the passing of Pope Francis, and the dawn of a new pope. As we feel like sheep without a shepherd, let’s remember during this Easter season that Christ, our Risen Lord, is always with us. As we eagerly await the moment when our new Pope steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s to greet us all, let’s keep our spirits high and pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the Cardinals in choosing a leader after the Heart of Christ.