It was such a joy to witness Pope Francis giving his final blessing to the crowds on Easter Day. It felt like he was using up all of his reserves of energy to serve the people one last time. In this we see the depth of his love for the people in his spiritual care and his devotion to the calling given to him by our Good Shepherd. To die like this at Eastertime after the giving of a brief Easter Blessing feels such a fitting and gentle ending to his long ministry to Jesus and his Church. He reminded me of our late Queen, who spent her last day on earth meeting with her new PM. She used her final reserves of energy in service.
May their lives and that of our risen Lord Jesus inspire us to serve those God is calling us to serve with love and devotion. May we be as generous in our self-giving.
Do hold the Roman Catholic Church in your prayers at this time of mourning and transition. You may like to say this prayer.
Risen Lord,
Good Shepherd of your sheep,
we praise you for your calling of your servant Francis
to be your shepherd of the Catholic Church,
giving thanks for his love and devotion
right up to his dying hours.
Walk with his closest companions,
his trusted confidants, and all in your Church
who are mourning his death.
Be with them in their sadness.
Enfold your servant Francis in your love
and safekeeping, Lord, we pray.
Amen.
God bless,
Revd Katrina