REMEMBERING POPE FRANCIS

April 25, 2025 by ADN Communications in News

Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, was eulogized as a humble servant of God during a Requiem Mass at the Holy Family Minor Basilica. The ceremony drew dignitaries, clergy, and faithful from all walks of life who came to honour his legacy as the voice of the voiceless and a tireless advocate for peace and justice.

Presiding over the Mass, the Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, His Excellency Archbishop Hubertus van Megen, celebrated the late pontiff and urged the congregation to carry forward his mission.
“If we truly want to follow in his footsteps, we must become his voice – speak for the voiceless, defend the vulnerable, and stand boldly for peace and justice,” he said.

Archbishop Philip Anyolo echoed these sentiments, describing Pope Francis as “a true shepherd who loved tenderly.”
“We gather as a family to remember one who walked humbly with the Lord, acted justly, and loved tenderly. He devoted his life to tireless service with compassion and grace. His legacy calls us to uphold the values of mercy,” he added.

Among those in attendance were senior government officials, clergy, and dignitaries. Former President of Kenya, His Excellency Uhuru Kenyatta, paid tribute, describing Pope Francis as a leader who upheld the dignity of all people.
“Despite his high position, he did not walk in the ways of the mighty. He was a true servant leader — choosing to serve, not to be served; to save, not to be saved,” Kenyatta said. “He reached beyond religious boundaries and gave dignity to every human life.”

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis served as the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. He passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.