By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, May 6, 2025 / 15:11 pm
Cardinals on Sunday concluded the celebration of nine requiem Masses for the nine days of mourning for Pope Francis. In many cases their homilies emphasized the relatable feelings of worry, fear, and sadness the apostles experienced after Christ’s death, relating it to the “‘sede vacante” and the uncertainty around the election of a new pope — and reminding Catholics of the joy and hope brought by the Resurrection.
They also reflected on the service and legacy of Pope Francis’ pontificate, highlighting his strong work ethic and focus on mercy and offering advice to their fellow cardinals for choosing his successor.
“As in the time of the first disciples, there are successes and also failures, fatigue, and fear” during this time following Pope Francis’ death, Cardinal Baldassare Reina, vicar general of the Diocese of Rome, said on April 28. “The horizon is immense, and temptations creep in that veil the one thing that matters: to desire, seek, and labor in anticipation of ‘a new heaven and a new earth.’”
Here are some of the other memorable quotes from the nine homilies, which began with Pope Francis’ funeral on April 26 and concluded on May 4, the third Sunday of Easter.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, former secretary of state, on April 27:
“The risen Jesus appears to his disciples while they are in the upper room where they have fearfully shut themselves in, with the doors locked (John 20:19). Their state of mind is disturbed and their hearts are full of sadness, because the master and shepherd they had followed, leaving everything behind, has been nailed to the cross.
Feeling Lost, Yet United: Reflections on the Current State of the World
They have experienced terrible things and feel orphaned, alone, lost, threatened, and helpless.
As we navigate through the challenges of life, the recent loss of a great shepherd – Pope Francis – has left many of us feeling a sense of grief, sadness, and bewilderment. The world seems to be in a state of turmoil, much like the apostles grieving over the death of Jesus.
Despite this sense of loss, there is a glimmer of hope and joy that shines through the darkness. The Easter season reminds us that even in times of trial and sadness, there is a sense of renewal and rebirth that sustains us. This feeling is palpable, especially in gatherings like the recent jubilee celebration where young people from all over the world have come together in unity.
Insights from Cardinal Baldassare Reina, vicar general of Rome, on April 28:
In a world that often feels like sheep without a shepherd, the words of Jesus resonate deeply. As we reflect on our role in continuing the mission of spreading love and hope, we are reminded of the weight placed on our shoulders. The responsibility to carry forward the teachings and actions of the Master is a daunting task, yet one that is filled with purpose and meaning.
Now more than ever, as we search for guidance and leadership, we must resist the urge to resort to tactics or power plays. Instead, we are called to embrace a radical disposition to fulfill God’s dream with humility and grace. Our duty is to discern and align our actions with the greater mission of creating a new heaven and a new earth, preparing the Church as a bride for her Bridegroom.
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As we navigate through the complexities of life, it is important to remember the teachings of Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, former prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches. He reminds us of the dangers of following worldly fashions and ideological claims that may lead us astray from the unity of Christ’s garment.
Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti’s Reflections
He encourages us to seek the truth within ourselves, echoing the words of St. Augustine. By returning to our inner selves, we can find the authentic meaning that connects us to God and allows us to cry out to Him as beloved children.
Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime’s Reflections
On the following day, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, former pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, reminds us of the fearless faith of the apostles. Despite threats and persecution, they stood firm in their belief in the risen Lord and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Just as the disciples found the risen Lord waiting for them at the seashore, we too can find strength and courage in our faith as we navigate life’s challenges.
Stay tuned for more insightful reflections and teachings on our blog!
