The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called on bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful to offer prayers for Pope Francis' soul.

The Pope passed away today(Monday, April 21, 2025), just a day after celebrating Easter Mass at St. Peter’s Square in Rome.

The Vatican confirmed the Pope’s passing after a prolonged struggle with illness, noting that although he had been discharged from the hospital recently and had resumed his papal duties, his death came suddenly, leaving millions of Catholics and world leaders shocked and mourning.

A statement signed by the Catholic Bishop of Sunyani and President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, suggested a National Memorial Mass to be held at a later date as well as Local Requiem Masses and Holy Hours to be encouraged in all archdioceses, dioceses, and parishes.

Catholic institutions 

The statement also entreated Catholic institutions to host prayer services, talks, or discussions to reflect on Pope Francis' teachings and legacy.

“Let us pray for the Church worldwide as we mourn our beloved Holy Father and prepare for the election of his successor; Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord” the statement added.

It stated that “With profound sadness and faith in Christ's victory over death, we announce the passing of Pope Francis, the revered Supreme Pontiff. He departed peacefully on April 21, 2025.”

Legacy

The statement further eulogised Pope Francis' remarkable legacy which is marked by humility, unwavering faith, and tireless advocacy for the poor, peace, and environmental stewardship. His life and ministry it explained, embodied Gospel values of love, mercy, and compassion.

Tributes

Meanwhile many global leaders have taken to social media platforms, including Facebook and X, to express their condolences and pay homage to a man widely seen as a spiritual reformer and a beacon of humility, compassion, and peace.

His Royal Majesty King Charles in a tribute stated: My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.”

Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, General Secretary of the Commonwealth, shared her sorrow in a Facebook post:

“Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His advocacy for the poor, peace and tolerance touched the lives of people across the Commonwealth and the world. May he rest in peace.”

French President Emmanuel Macron called the late pontiff “a man of humility,” recognising Francis’s personal simplicity and his devotion to the marginalised.

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof remembered him as “a man of the people in every way,” reflecting the Pope’s lifelong commitment to bringing the Church closer to ordinary people.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola remarked on his warmth and universal appeal, saying, “His contagious smile captured millions of people’s hearts across the globe.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog praised the Pope’s compassion: “Pope Francis showed boundless compassion and dedication to building bridges between faiths. His legacy of peace and unity will endure.”

Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter echoed similar sentiments, describing Francis as “a great spiritual leader, a tireless advocate for peace.”

Scottish First Minister John Swinney highlighted the Pope’s moral voice in international affairs: “He was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation in a world that desperately needed it.”

Filipino Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, in his tribute on X wrote: ” May you rest in peace, Pope Francis. You stood up and spoke out, relentless for the poor, the persecuted and the victims of war, the refugees, and the migrants. may you continue to give us faith and courage in this brutal world.

Chairperson of the African Union, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, paid his tribute to the late Pope for his courageous engagement with the African continent, amplifying the voices of the voiceless, championing peace and reconciliation and standing in solidarity with those affected by conflict and poverty.”

The Church of England, as well said a prayer for the late Pope Francis.

Successor

In the catholic faith at the moment, plans have began in Rome, Italy to find a successor for Pope Francis.