STAR Catholic School Division Mourns the Passing of Pope Francis

With deep reverence and heartfelt reflection, STAR Catholic School Division joins the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. A humble shepherd, a voice for peace, and a beacon of mercy, he faithfully served the Church and inspired millions through his witness, compassion, and leadership. His legacy of love, humility, and service will remain a guiding light for us all.

On Easter Monday at 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words:

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."

As a faith-filled school division rooted in Catholic tradition, we unite in prayer for the repose of his soul and give thanks for his tireless devotion to Christ and the Church.

STAR Catholic School Division remembers the visit of His Holiness to Edmonton and Canada July 24-29, 2022. The Pope’s visit provided a unique opportunity for him to listen and dialogue with First Nations, Metis and Inuit Peoples of this land, to express his heartfelt closeness and to address the impact of colonization and the participation of the Catholic Church in the operation of residential schools throughout Canada. Please visit the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton for details.

We invite our school communities to take time in prayer during this period of mourning, and to reflect on the life and mission of Pope Francis. As we await the election of his successor by the College of Cardinals, we hold them in prayer and trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

Below is a prayer we share in solidarity and hope:

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.
℟. And let perpetual light shine upon him.

O God, faithful rewarder of souls,
grant that your departed servant Pope Francis,
whom you made successor of Peter
and shepherd of your Church,
may happily enjoy forever in your
presence in heaven
the mysteries of your grace and compassion,
which he faithfully ministered on earth.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity
of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
℟. Amen.

We also invite you to watch and share a heartfelt message from Archbishop Richard Smith, reflecting on the life and legacy of Pope Francis: Watch the video

You can view the biography of Pope Francis here.

For the most up-to-date information and ongoing coverage, please visit Vatican News: https://www.vaticannews.va/en.html

As we walk through this time of change in the Church, STAR Catholic will continue to share updates and support for our staff, students, and families.