Over the past two weeks, news about the passing of Pope Francis has dominated headlines across television, newspapers, and online platforms. Coverage included his final days, funeral arrangements, the sede vacante period, the conclave to elect his successor, and speculation about leading papal candidates.
These reports have given the public—especially non-Catholics—a deeper understanding of the late pontiff’s legacy and the workings of the Catholic Church.
The passing of Pope Francis is undoubtedly saddening as we witnessed him teetering on the brink of death. His condition was extremely critical yet miraculously stabilised after over-a-month of treatment at Gemelli Hospital when he was able to leave and return to his residence at Casa Santa Marta to recuperate.
During the period, he resumed his pastoral duties including drafting catechetical texts, sending messages to authorities in Myanmar and Thailand to offer condolences to earthquake victims and rescuers, and issuing statements for peace in South Sudan.
On April 6, he made his first public appearance after being discharged, visiting St. Peter’s Square to greet and thank participants in the Jubilee of the Sick and Healthcare Workers.
In fact, even during his illness, the pope kept everyone in his heart. On Holy Thursday afternoon, he visited Rome’s Regina Caeli prison to meet with inmates and staff.
His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, April 20, when he appeared in a wheelchair on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to bless the crowd with a heartfelt “Happy Easter!” He also expressed gratitude to his personal assistant for helping him return to the square. On the next day [April 21], he peacefully returned to the Father’s house.
His passing during the Easter season carries profound significance for all believers, as it echoes Christ’s victory over death through the Paschal Mystery—revealing the promise of eternal life as the Church eagerly awaits his glorious return.
In April, in addition to the passing of Pope Francis, the diocese also mourned the death of Father Lau Tak-kwong, a local priest who passed away while serving his parish. Over the years, he had chaired and served on various diocesan committees, guided faith groups, and ministered in multiple parishes, earning deep affection from peers and parishioners. This sudden loss naturally brings grief.
However, as people of faith, we know that physical death is only a temporary farewell. Father Lau, together with all the saints and Pope Francis, will surely watch over us from heaven, protecting the entire Church. Let us, with faith and hope, carry forward their unfinished missions in this world, looking forward to reuniting with them in heaven one day. SE
