Period of Mourning for Pope Francis Ends at the Vatican

The nine-day mourning period following the death of Pope Francis officially ended on Sunday with a ceremonial Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. The Vatican began its traditional “novemdiales” on April 26, the day of the Argentine pope’s funeral, after his passing on April 21 at the age of 88 from a stroke.

Each day since has featured solemn liturgical events in honor of Francis, who was remembered during Sunday’s homily by Cardinal Dominique Mamberti for his “intensely pastoral life” and “countless encounters” grounded in deep prayer. Mamberti, who holds the title of protodeacon, will be the one to pronounce the “Habemus papam” formula when a new pope is elected, with the conclave set to begin on Wednesday.

As reported by Digi24, the conclusion of mourning came just as a moving video message from Pope Francis, recorded in 2024, was broadcast at a massive youth gathering in Mexico City’s iconic Zócalo square. The message had been prepared for Vitae Fest, a peace and reconciliation event attended by more than 100,000 young people.

A Message of Joy and Action

In his recorded remarks, Pope Francis encouraged the youth to “make noise with joy” and embrace the call to better the world. “There are many bad things in the world, and we must fix them. But there are also many beautiful things—and you are among them,” he told the cheering crowd.

The event also celebrated the Catholic Church’s Jubilee of Hope. Attendees waved white handkerchiefs as a symbol of unity, vitality, and the collective longing for a more compassionate society. Francis, addressing this symbol, said, “That white handkerchief is always the hope of all sinners, like us.”

“May God bless you. May Our Lady of Guadalupe protect you. And don’t forget to pray for me,” the late pontiff added in the emotional video.