In silence and song, Solemn Mass in Kuwait honors the life and legacy of Pope Francis
“Pope Francis was not only a leader of the Catholic Church; he was a moral compass for humanity, and a beacon of hope in troubled times,” Archbishop Nugent
In a deeply moving ceremony marked by reverence and solemnity, a memorial Mass was celebrated at 9:15 am today (Friday) at the Holy Family Cathedral in Kuwait City to mourn the passing and honor the extraordinary life of His Holiness Pope Francis, the 266th Bishop of Rome and spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by His Excellency Archbishop Eugene Martin Nugent, the Apostolic Nuncio to Kuwait, who was joined by members of the clergy, the diplomatic corps, and a large, diverse assembly of faithful parishioners and well-wishers from across the country.
In his poignant homily, Archbishop Nugent paid tribute to Pope Francis as a shepherd of unparalleled humility, wisdom, and compassion. He described the late pontiff as “a tireless advocate for the marginalized, a voice for peace in a divided world, and a humble servant of God whose heart beat for the poor, the forgotten, and the displaced.”
Recalling the Pope’s tireless efforts to promote dialogue among religions, his deep concern for the environment, and his call for mercy and reconciliation in all aspects of life, the Archbishop added: “Pope Francis was not only a leader of the Catholic Church; he was a moral compass for humanity, and a beacon of hope in troubled times.”
The cathedral resounded with hymns of mourning and thanksgiving, as congregants united in prayerful reflection, celebrating the life of a pontiff who forever changed the face of the modern papacy—one grounded in simplicity, inclusiveness, and a radical love for all.
Following the Mass, a condolence gathering was held at the Holy Family Hall, where mourners had the opportunity to sign a special book of condolences. The book, filled with heartfelt tributes and personal messages of gratitude, will be respectfully delivered to the Apostolic Nunciature to be forwarded to the Holy See.
The commemorative service was not only an expression of collective sorrow but also a solemn celebration of a spiritual giant whose enduring message of fraternity, humility, and peace will continue to echo in the hearts of millions across the globe.
