A memorial Mass concelebrated by the Holy See’s ambassador to Australia was held at St Christopher’s Cathedral in Canberra last night to honour the life of Pope Francis. Source: Catholic Voice.
The Mass, led by principal celebrant Canberra-Goulburn Archbishop Christopher Prowse, was concelebrated by Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles Balvo, and attended by many clergy, dignitaries, seminarians, ecumenical leaders, and faithful from across the region.
In an emotional homily, Archbishop Balvo reflected on personal meetings with the Holy Father and the historic moment Pope Francis was elected.
“When I heard that, I knew this pontificate would be very different because of who Francis was,” he said.
“Pope Francis was called to be the shepherd of this Church in a very difficult time – a time when, in some ways, the Church was in pieces – and it was the mission given to him to help put it back together.”
Archbishop Balvo noted that Pope Francis began his ministry as Bishop of Rome on March 19, 2013 – the Feast of St Joseph.
“St Joseph is not only the protector of Jesus and Mary, but he is the protector of the Church,” he said.
He further highlighted Pope Francis’ reflection on St Joseph’s approach to his role, describing it as one of discretion, humility, and silence, characterised by an unwavering faithfulness, even during moments of uncertainty.
Archbishop Balvo expanded on the vocation of protector, suggesting that it extends beyond the Church itself.
“Protecting creation has been a priority of Pope Francis since the very start of his pontificate. It involves respecting all of God’s creatures, as well as the environment we inhabit,” he explained.
“This role of protector also calls for care and compassion for all people, particularly those most vulnerable in society, such as children, the elderly and those in need, who are too often overlooked.”
Archbishop Prowse described Pope Francis as a source of hope for the Church and the world.
“What a great gift Pope Francis has been as our Pope over these 12 years. He has been a Pope who has encouraged us to open ourselves more fully to the merciful love of Jesus,” he said.
“This is even reflected in his Papal Motto: ‘Lowly but chosen’. We can certainly say that God has chosen Pope Francis for our time and place.
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Apostolic Nuncio reflects on Pope Francis at Memorial Mass in Canberra (By Veronika Cox, Catholic Voice)
