Prayer of Gratitude for the Life of Pope Francis

The Catholic community mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.

The death of the Pope marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the life of the Catholic Church. Just a day earlier, he appeared before the faithful in Saint Peter’s Square, offering his Easter blessing and a message of peace and freedom. It was his final public gesture in a life devoted to service.

Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis tirelessly placed humanity's goodness at its heart. He wasn't afraid to challenge us, to challenge tradition, to strive every day to make people feel more welcome, more seen, more heard, and more understood. He pushed us to protect the world we inhabit, the one God made for us.

The cry of the earth, the cry of the poor

One of Pope Francis’ main messages came through his environmental encyclical, Laudato si’, On Care for our Common Home. One of the ideas that emerged from this landmark document was ‘integral ecology’, explaining why it’s so important for Catholics to understand our relationship to God, each other and creation.

He wanted to build a better world, one that heeded both the voices of the poor and marginalised, and the impact of human beings on creation.

In honour of the work of Pope Francis we offer this PRAYER FOR OUR EARTH

A Prayer for the Earth

In Memory of Pope Francis
Loving God,
Today we remember with sorrow and gratitude
your servant Pope Francis,
who returned to You after a life poured out in love and service.

Even in his final days, he brought hope to the world—
blessing us on Easter Sunday,
speaking words of peace, freedom, and compassion.

We thank You for his courage, humility,
and tireless work for justice, unity, and care for the poor.
May his example guide our hearts,
and may his spirit of mercy live on in our words and actions.

Welcome him into the light of Your presence,
and comfort Your Church as we journey forward in faith.

Through Christ our Lord,

Amen.