In a heartfelt response to the passing of Pope Francis, over 300,000 Catholics across Liberia are expected to congregate this Saturday for a Solemn Holy Mass at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Monrovia.
The Mass, led by the Apostolic Nuncio to Liberia, Archbishop Walter Erbi will pray for the eternal repose of the Pope, who died on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Vatican.
The Metropolitan Archbishop of Monrovia has encouraged church members to engage in a “Pilgrimage of prayer” to commend the late Holy Father to the mercy of God and seek divine guidance for the future of the Catholic Church.
In a circular to the faithful, the Most Revered Dr. Gabriel Blamo Jubwe said the Mass would not only express gratitude for Pope Francis’s ministry but also reflect on his significant contributions and unwavering commitment to social justice and peace.
“With heavy hearts, we unite in grief as we mourn the passing of a beloved figure who resonated deeply within our community,” the Bishop’s Conference of Liberia (CABICOL) expressed in a statement. “Pope Francis was an emblem of peace and solidarity, whose impact extended far beyond the Vatican.”
The Pope’s papacy was marked by numerous social justice initiatives and interfaith dialogues, especially pertinent in nations like Liberia that have struggled with conflict and division.
His focus on peace-building left an indelible mark in the country, fostering hope and a renewed sense of community among the Catholic faithful.
Liberia’s President Joseph Boakai issued a heartfelt condolence message, lauding the Pope’s legacy of humility and compassion. He recalled a meaningful audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican in October 2024, where they discussed pressing global challenges, including migration and social equity.
“His relentless advocacy for the marginalized and commitment to social justice and environmental stewardship underscores the deep understanding and concern he had for the world’s most pressing issues,” President Boakai stated.
The Catholic Bishops Conference has called for a period of reflection and encouraged all dioceses in Liberia to honor the Pope’s memory through acts of compassion and unity.
As tributes continue to cascade in from believers and leaders alike, the legacy of Pope Francis serves as a guiding light for the Catholic community in Liberia, inspiring them to embody the values he championed—compassion, inclusivity, and a commitment to the common good.
