Catholic Diocese of Wichita to hold memorial Mass in honor of Pope Francis
Five days after the passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic Diocese of Wichita is holding a memorial Mass for the pontiff, according to a post shared on Facebook Wednesday.
“Pope Francis was a man of great faith, a servant of God who walked closely with the poor, the marginalized, and those in need of mercy,” Wichita Bishop Carl A. Kemme said in a statement released Monday. “His pontificate was marked by a profound emphasis on love, mercy, and justice—reminding us all of our Christian duty to care for one another, especially the least among us.”
The Solemn Mass will be held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, located at 430 N. Broadway St. Saturday, April 26 at 9 a.m.
Pope Francis died April 21 at the age of 88. He was elected as the pope in March 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI after his resignation in February of the same year.
“I ask the faithful of the Diocese of Wichita to join me in praying for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul. May our loving Father welcome him into the eternal joy of heaven, where he will behold the face of God whom he served so faithfully,” Kemme’s Monday statement reads.
Gov. Laura Kelly has directed flags in public buildings to fly at half-staff until sunset April 26 in honor of Pope Francis.
“As one of the most influential leaders of our time, Pope Francis was a beacon of light. His wisdom inspired countless people to treat others with compassion and generosity,” Kelly said. “May his legacy of selflessness and humility be instilled in each of us and continue to live on.”
Pope Francis was the first pope from the Americas and was known for more progressive policies than his predecessors — specifically for his stances on climate change, capitalism and refugees. His death followed a period of declining health.
With a vacancy to fill, cardinals are set to hold what is called general congregations to discuss the Catholic church’s needs and challenges, according to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The process of electing a new pope generally begins between 15 to 20 days after the vacancy, when the cardinals gather for a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica to seek guidance.
The college of cardinals will cast secret ballots in four rounds of voting which happen daily until one candidate receives two thirds of the vote.
“In these days of mourning, let us also pray for the College of Cardinals as they gather to elect a new successor to St. Peter. May the Holy Spirit guide them in choosing a shepherd who will continue to lead the Church with wisdom, courage, and love,” Kemme’s statement continued.
This story was originally published April 23, 2025 at 3:35 PM.
