Pope Francis
1936-2025
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Press conference given by Bishop Edward J. Burns on the passing of Pope Francis
265th Successor to St. Peter
On March 13, 2013, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, 76, archbishop of Buenos Aires was elected in the conclave to become the first pope from the Americas. As the 265th successor to Saint Peter, he was the first pope to take the name of Francis, a name chosen in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi because he wanted “a church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security.” (Evangelii Gaudium, 49).
Statement of Most Reverend Edward J. Burns
Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas on the Death of Pope Francis
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis.
The entire Diocese of Dallas joins the universal Church in mourning the loss of a shepherd who led us with humility, compassion, and unwavering faith.
After Holy Week and a joyful Easter Sunday, I found myself deeply moved to see our Holy Father, Pope Francis, for the last time in Saint Peter’s Square. It was striking—but not surprising —that even in his final days, he chose to be among God’s people. That was so much like him.
I am personally blessed by Pope Francis for the honor of his appointment of me as the eighth bishop of the Diocese of Dallas on December 13, 2016. His kindness, support, and trust in me have been a profound source of confidence. Through his decision, he entrusted me with the responsibility to serve the Church and the faithful of this Diocese in North Texas. Pope Francis served as a true shepherd, a universal shepherd. He lived his ministry with humility, compassion, and a boundless care for every soul. His love reached across borders, cultures, and differences, always pointing us toward mercy, hope, and the joy of the Gospel, especially for the poor, the members of the immigrant community, and the marginalized. The Church has lost a remarkable leader, and the world, a powerful witness to Christ’s love.
I also want to ask you to join me in offering prayers for our dear friend, Cardinal Kevin Farrell— my predecessor in the Diocese of Dallas—who now faces the enormous responsibility of helping to guide the Church during this time of sede vacante. Those of us here in Dallas who know Cardinal Farrell surround him with our support and prayers as he carries this weighty task.
May the soul of Pope Francis rest in the eternal peace of Christ, the Good Shepherd whom he served so faithfully. And may the Holy Spirit continue guide the Church through these days.
Mass for the Intentions of His Holiness,
Pope Francis
The Most Reverend Edward J. Burns, Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas, celebrated a Mass for the Intentions of His Holiness, Pope Francis, at 12:00 noon on April 21, 2025, at the National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Mass began with the tolling of the bells, followed by a special liturgy that will honor the life, legacy, and pastoral leadership of the Holy Father.
Live from Vatican City
Calendar of Events at the Vatican
The Pope’s body was vested, laid in a simple wooden coffin, and taken to the chapel at Sancta Marthae Chapel. A Liturgy of the Word was led by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, Camerlengo [Chamberlain] of the Vatican.
Cardinal Farrell will lead the procession from Sancta Marthae Chapel, to Saint Peter’s Square, to St. Peter’s Basilica. Public viewing will begin at 9:00 AM Vatican Time (that is 3:00 AM Eastern).
A late-night prayer service and closing of the coffin.
Funeral Mass for Pope Francis 10:00 AM (4:00 Eastern). Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside.
At the request of Pope Francis, burial will take place in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (St. Mary Major). The last pope to be buried there was Pope Clement the IX in the seventeenth century. The simple stone will be at ground level and will bear the word “Franciscus.”
A Mass originally scheduled as a Jubilee Mass for Adolescents will
become one of eight memorial Masses for the Pope.
To be announced: The Conclave begins 15-21 days after the Pope’s death.
Message from Bishop Burns
Pray with Us
Join us in prayer for the Holy Father. We invite you to pause and lift up a prayer for the repose of his soul, for the Church he shepherded, and for all who mourn this great loss.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
Resources
- What happens next for the Church? | The Texas Catholic
- Where to Watch Pope Francis’ Funeral Mass Live | The Texas Catholic
- Special Terms Used During the Period Between Popes | The Texas Catholic
- Pope Francis In Memoriam | USCCB
- Novemdiales Novena Prayers; April 26 – May 4, 2025 | USCCB
- Pope Francis Biography | Vatican
- Writings, Homilies, and Documents of Pope Francis | Vatican
- Tribute Video |Catholic News Service