Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Beijing ( Fides Agency) - The announcement of Pope Francis' death reached China in the late afternoon. Local media gave the news great prominence, repeating the Pope's words about his love for China and the Chinese Catholic community.
Immediately, the small flock of Chinese Catholics stopped to pray for the soul of the Bishop of Rome.
The faithful gathered spontaneously in churches to pray, including the Holy Rosary, for their beloved Pope. Social media was flooded with messages of condolence from priests and bishops.
“A great shepherd has left the world after blessing it yesterday!” wrote one priest, referring to yesterday's Easter Urbi et Orbi blessing. ‘A good shepherd. He chose to leave after Easter, allowing us to celebrate the Resurrection!’ were the words of another Chinese priest. The parish of Nantang has already announced that Masses will be celebrated tomorrow in memory of the Bishop of Rome. (NZ) ( Fides Agency 21/4/2025)
