Nine Days of Mourning

Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday, 26 April, marked the first day of the Novemdiales, the nine consecutive days of mourning with which the Catholic Church observes the death of a Pontiff. In accordance with the ancient custom, during this time, Cardinals celebrate Masses of suffrage for the repose of the Pope’s soul. The Eucharistic celebrations are open to everyone and are entrusted to a different group each day, taking into account their connection with the Holy Father. The variety of these groups reflects both the scope of the Supreme Pastor’s ministry and the universality of the Church of Rome (cf. Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, nos. 124–125).

The Masses took place as follows:

Second Day: Sunday, 27 April, 10:30 a.m. — the employees and faithful of Vatican City

Main celebrant: Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State

Third Day: Monday, 28 April, 5:00 p.m. — The Church of Rome

Saint Peter’s Basilica

Main celebrant: Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Vicar General of His Holiness for the Diocese of Rome

Fourth Day: Tuesday, 29 April, 5:00 p.m. — Cappella Papale

Main celebrant: Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter

Fifth Day: Wednesday, 30 April, 5:00 p.m. — Cappella Papale

Main celebrant: Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, Vice-Dean of the College of Cardinals

Sixth Day: Thursday, 1 May, 5:00 p.m. — The Roman Curia

Main celebrant: Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church

Seventh Day: Friday, 2 May, 5:00 p.m. — The Eastern Churches

Main celebrant: Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, Prefect Emeritus of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches

Eighth Day: Saturday, 3 May, at 5:00 p.m. — Members of Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life

Main celebrant: Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Pro-Prefect Emeritus of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life

Ninth Day: Sunday, 4 May at 5:00 p.m. — Cappella Papale

Main celebrant: Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, Protodeacon of the College of Cardinals.

As announced by the Cardinals gathered for the fifth General Congregation, on Monday morning, 28 April, the conclave is set to begin on 7 May in the Sistine Chapel. The Cardinals have asked the faithful to pray for them during this time of great responsibility and discernment.