
Local diocese reacts to popes passing; what happens next?
As the mourning of Pope Francis continues, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Prince Albert will join others around the world in an official period of mourning for nine days known as Novemdiales — a tradition that dates back to Roman times.
During the nine days, cardinals from around the world congregate in Rome and papal candidates essentially campaign on their visions and the direction they think the church should take.
In a statement issued by the local diocese, Prince Albert Bishop Stephen A. Hero called the passing of Pope Francis a profound moment of grief and encouraged everyone during the nine-day mourning period to pray and each parish to offer a mass as soon as possible for the Pope.
“It was a special joy to see Pope Francis appear on the balcony over St. Peter’s square on Easter Sunday and give a final blessing Urbi et Orbi (to the city and to the world). It was clear that the Holy Father was still in fragile health, but that he wanted, as best he could, to be visible and present to all who are celebrating the joy of Christ’s Resurrection,” Hero said.