Honoring Pope Francis: The Novemdiales Tradition
As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church is set to observe an ancient tradition known as Novemdiales – nine consecutive days of mourning marked by Eucharistic celebrations in suffrage for the late Pope.
These Masses are open to all, with a different group participating each day to reflect the diversity and universality of the Church of Rome. The schedule for these Masses was set by the Cardinals present in Rome during their General Congregation.
The Novemdiales Schedule
The Novemdiales will begin with Pope Francis’ funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Square at 10:00 AM. Following this, each day will see a different group participating in the Mass:
- Second Day: Sunday, April 27, 10:30 AM – Cardinal Pietro Parolin will preside over the Mass for the employees and faithful of Vatican City.
- Third Day: Monday, April 28, 5:00 PM – Cardinal Baldassare Reina will lead the Mass for the Church of Rome.
- Fourth Day: Tuesday, April 29, 5:00 PM – Cardinal Mauro Gambetti will preside over the Mass for the Chapters of the Papal Basilicas.
- Fifth Day: Wednesday, April 30, 5:00 PM – Cardinal Leonardo Sandri will lead the Mass for the Papal Chapel.
- Sixth Day: Thursday, May 1, 5:00 PM – Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell will preside over the Mass for the Roman Curia.
- Seventh Day: Friday, May 2, 5:00 PM – Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti will lead the Mass for the Eastern Churches.
- Eighth Day: Saturday, May 3, 5:00 PM – Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime will preside over the Mass for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
- Ninth Day: Sunday, May 4, 5:00 PM – Cardinal Dominique Mamberti will lead the final Mass with the Papal Chapel group.
On April 30 and May 4, only Cardinals will be allowed to concelebrate the Masses dedicated to the Papal Chapel.
Let us come together to honor and remember the life and legacy of Pope Francis during these nine days of mourning.
