Catholics gather in prayer for Pope Francis at special Mass led by Cardinal Brislin
By Kati Dijane – Catholics came in their numbers to Christ the King Cathedral on Sunday, 2 March 2024, joining Cardinal Stephen Brislin, in a special Mass to pray for the health and strength of Pope Francis. The atmosphere among the faithful was one of solemn hope, as they joined in prayer for the Holy Father during his time of illness.
The special Mass was also celebrated by Father Lawrence Ndlovu, Father Andrew Knott OMI, Father Jean-Baptist, as well as Deacon Bakang Khunou. Various media houses, including Newzroom Afrika, the SABC and Radio Veritas, captured the solemn, prayerful moment. In his homily, Cardinal Brislin reflected on the power of words and how they reveal the essence of one’s heart.
A leader who also resonates with the marginalised
“Today, as we gather in prayer, we remember that Pope Francis is not just our leader and shepherd—he belongs to the world,” Cardinal Brislin further said during his homily. “People of different faiths recognise in him a remarkable and strong leader, a man of vision and inspiration.”
The cardinal also emphasised that Pope Francis’ teachings have resonated with millions across the globe, urging compassion, justice and mercy. “His words have told us a lot about him—who he is in his heart and his deep love for humanity,” he added. He also noted that throughout his papacy, Pope Francis has championed the causes of the poor, the environment and global peace, making his leadership crucial in today’s world.
The call for compassion and unity
Cardinal Brislin reminded the faithful of Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to mercy and kindness, noting that his leadership has always centred on lifting the marginalised. “The Pope has spoken out against systems that exclude mercy and compassion. He has called us to a life where we live our faith, with Jesus at the centre of our hearts and minds.”
Echoing Pope Francis’ teachings, the cardinal emphasised the importance of love and service. “To love the Lord our God with all our hearts and to love our neighbours as ourselves—this is the greatest commandment given to us. We cannot claim to love God while failing to serve our neighbours.”
He further reflected on the Pope’s dedication to interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding, saying, “Pope Francis has always sought to bridge divides, whether among different faith communities or nations in conflict.”
As the Mass concluded, many worshippers stayed behind, lighting candles and offering personal prayers for Pope Francis.
Speaking with the media
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika after the Mass, Cardinal Brislin highlighted the significance of the Pope’s role in advocating for peace and justice. “Even from his sickbed, he continues to call for reconciliation among nations and to challenge the world on issues of inequality and injustice.”
Speaking to the SABC, he reiterated the Pope’s message of unity and compassion. “We stand together as a church and as people of faith, praying for our Holy Father, who has given so much of himself for the good of others.”
The media in attendance also reported on the overwhelming support for Pope Francis, capturing interviews with members of the congregation who expressed their admiration for his tireless work. The Cardinal also emphasised the global impact of Pope Francis’ leadership, noting how his health struggles have drawn concern from lay people and leaders around the world.
Looking ahead with hope
Meanwhile, Cardinal Brislin, also the president of the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference, assured Catholics in the region of the pope’s commitment to his service, despite his critical condition, which should revive our hope this Jubilee Year. “In the past couple of days, we have heard he’s been doing a little bit of work in hospital. We know that he’s receiving daily communion and certain visitors as well. And in that we see the strength of Jesus Christ working through him.”
His message of hope to all Catholics concerned about and praying for the Pope’s health is: “As much as we are feeling sad because of the Pope’s illness, we must, as Christians and Catholics, know that Christ is always present among us and that God is active in the world. We sincerely pray that Pope Francis will be healed, and he’ll have the strength again to continue to lead us. No matter what the future holds, we know that Christ is with us and that we will be strengthened by the grace that comes from God.”
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