A Catholic Framework for

Remembrance and Action

When a beloved pontiff departs from this earthly life, the Church enters a period of mourning, but alongside this grief, the whole universal Church honours his profound legacy. This honour is expressed not only through memories but also by actively imitating his virtues, engaging in heartfelt prayers, and continuing his mission.
These are detailed and tangible ways for us to live out our faith in remembrance of Pope Francis. These practices are deeply rooted in Sacred Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the teachings he passionately shared during his papacy.

1. Offer Masses and Prayers for His Soul
Why? The Communion of Saints encompasses the faithful both on earth, in Purgatory, and in Heaven. By interceding for Pope Francis, we assist him and express our trust in God’s infinite mercy.
How to do it:
- We can request a Mass intention specifically for the repose of his soul at our parish. This is a powerful way to unite with the Church in praying for him.
- Consider praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet, reflecting on the depths of Christ’s mercy and invoking it “for the sake of His sorrowful Passion,” as emphasized in the Diary of St. Faustina.

Catholic foundation:

- “From the beginning, the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for them, so that thus purified, they may attain the beatific vision of God” (CCC 1032).

- “It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins” (2 Macc 12:46).

2. Celebrate an Annual Memorial Mass Why? Participating in a liturgical remembrance fosters a sense of unity among the faithful, allowing us to collectively express gratitude for his service and impact on the Church. How to do it: - Each year on the anniversary of his death, either attend or organize a Requiem Mass within our local parish. - Incorporate readings that held significant meaning for Pope Francis, including the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) and St. Paul’s hymn to charity (1 Corinthians 13), to enrich the celebration.

Catholic Foundation: - “The Church’s liturgy is the privileged place for the faithful to remember the deceased” (Code of Canon Law, Can. 1176). 3. Imitate His Works of Mercy Why? Pope Francis consistently emphasized the importance of both corporal and spiritual works of mercy, especially during the Year of Mercy. Engaging in these acts allows us to reflect on his teachings in our daily lives. How to do it: - Actively seek opportunities to feed the hungry, visit the sick, counsel the doubtful, forgive those who have wronged you, and participate in other acts of mercy outlined in the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. - Consider joining an existing parish outreach program or initiating a new project devoted to charitable work in his name, thereby continuing the mission he cherished. Catholic foundation: - “When I was hungry, you gave me food… as you did it to one of the least of these, my brethren, you did it to me” (Matthew 25:35-40). - “Mercy is the very foundation of the Church’s life” (Misericordiae Vultus §10). By following these paths, we not only keep Pope Francis’s memory alive but also deepen our own faith and commitment to living out the core principles of the Catholic Church.

4. Care for Our Common Home Why? In his encyclical "Laudato Si", Pope Francis calls for a profound ecological conversion, urging believers to embrace integral ecology, a way of viewing the interconnectedness of people, nature, and the environment. This reflects our responsibility not only to creation but also to future generations. How to do it: - In Personal Life: Commit to reducing waste by adopting practices such as composting, utilising reusable shopping bags, and minimising single-use plastics. Consider monitoring our carbon footprint and making adjustments to our lifestyle to support sustainability. - In Parish/Community Life: Support or initiate parish/community initiatives focused on “creation care.” These could involve organizing clean-up days, planting trees, or creating educational programs on environmental stewardship. Catholic Foundations: - “The environment is God’s gift to everyone, and in our use of it we have a responsibility toward the poor” (Laudato Si, §57). - “The earth belongs to the Lord, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1), illuminating our calling to respect and protect our shared home. 5. Foster Synodality and Listening

Why? Pope Francis emphasises a Church that “journeys together,” highlighting the importance of active listening, discernment, and shared responsibility within the community of believers.

How to do it: - Encourage Listening Sessions: Organise parish listening sessions that focus on the pastoral needs of the community. Ensure that everyone has a voice, especially those who are often marginalised. - Active Listening in Daily Life: Cultivate a habit of practicing active listening within families and communities. Aim for consensus in discussions, fostering a nurturing environment for dialogue before making decisions. Catholic Foundations: - “Synodality is at the heart of the Church… all the People of God participate in her evangelizing mission” (Pope Francis, Address at Closing of Synod 2023), reinforcing the vital role of every member in guiding the Church's direction.

6. Live Joyful Evangelization Why? In "Evangelii Gaudium" (“The Joy of the Gospel”), Pope Francis encourages Catholics to joyfully proclaim Christ, sharing the Good News with enthusiasm and love. How to do it: - Share Your Faith: Engage in conversations about your faith journey with friends, colleagues, or family members, and highlight how Christ has impacted your life. - Host Gospel Sharing Groups: Create gatherings that focus on experiencing Christ's love in the community, moving beyond abstract doctrines to personal encounters with faith. Catholic Foundations: - “I want 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). This encapsulates the call to be active and present in the world. 7. Serve the Marginalized and Migrants Why? Pope Francis has been a powerful advocate for the rights and dignity of migrants, refugees, and those on the margins of society, reminding us of our Christian duty to care for the vulnerable. How to do it: - Volunteer Locally: Get involved with local organizations that provide aid and support to migrants, such as food banks and shelters. - Advocacy: Work towards just immigration policies that affirm the dignity of human life, ensuring that the voices of migrants and refugees are heard and valued. Catholic Foundations: - “The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself” (Leviticus 19:34). - “Our defense of the environment needs to be joined to a sincere love for our fellow human beings and an unwavering commitment to resolving the problems of society” (Laudato Si, §91), emphasizing the interconnectedness of social and environmental issues.

8. Embrace Simplicity and Humility Why? Pope Francis exemplifies a life of simplicity, teaching that the Gospel encourages us to move away from materialism and pride towards a more humble way of living.

How to do it: - Voluntary Simplicity: Practice downsizing your possessions by donating items you no longer need and being mindful about new purchases. This not only helps those in need but also fosters a sense of gratitude. - Transparent Leadership: In roles of parish/ Religious Community leadership, prioritize accountability and openness, creating a culture of trust and mutual respect. Catholic Foundation: - “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19–20), which encourages us to focus on the eternal rather than the temporal. - “Blessed are the poor in spirit… for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3), reminding us of the virtues of humility and dependence on God. 9. Defend the Sanctity of Life and Human Dignity Why? Pope Francis consistently upholds the sanctity of life at all stages, advocating for the most vulnerable, including the unborn, the elderly, and the disabled. How to do it: - Support Pro-Life Initiatives: Engage with and support active pro-life programs within your diocese, such as educational campaigns and outreach efforts. - Demonstrating Compassion for Crisis Pregnancies: Manifest compassion by assisting women who are experiencing complex pregnancies and providing them with support and resources to enable informed choices regarding the preservation of life. Catholic foundations: - “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you” (Jeremiah 1:5), emphasizing the intrinsic value of life from conception. - “Life must be protected with the utmost care from the moment of conception” (Evangelium Vitae, §61), which serves as a cornerstone for the Church’s teaching on the sanctity of life. 10. Pray the Rosary and Entrust the World to Mary Why? Pope Francis often calls for Marian devotion, recognizing the Rosary as a source of consolation, peace, and guidance in our spiritual lives.

How to do it: - Join or Form Rosary Groups: Create or participate in parish rosary groups to foster community prayer and devotion. - Meditate on the Mysteries: Take time to reflect on the Mysteries of the Rosary, seeking Mary's intercession for your personal and global challenges. Catholic Foundations: - “Blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus” (Luke 1:42), honoring Mary as the Mother of God. - “The Rosary, though clearly Marian in character, is at heart a Christ-centered prayer” (Rosarium Virginis Mariae, §1), framing our devotion within the larger context of faith. Conclusion By actively praying for Pope Francis and embodying his spirit of mercy, humility, and caring stewardship, we can help ensure that his legacy flourishes. In doing so, we not only honor the man who occupied the Chair of St. Peter but also Christ Himself, who continues to work through each successor of St. Peter, guiding the Church toward greater love and compassion.

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together…but encouraging one another.” — Hebrews 10: 24–25

May His Soul Rest in Peace.

Dr. Nicholas Macedon OCD