To: All Church Organizations and Media Outlets

The Death of His Holiness Pope Francis

On 21st April 2025, His Holiness Pope Francis was called home by the Lord at the Vatican in Rome at the age of 88.

A Brief Chronology of Pope Francis:

• 17th December 1936 – Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina.  

• 11th March 1958 – Entered the Society of Jesus.  

• 13th December 1969 – Ordained to the priesthood.  

• 28th February 1998 – Consecrated as the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires.  

• 21st February 2001 – Elevated to the cardinalate.  

• 13th March 2013 – Elected as the 266th successor of Saint Peter.  

• 19th March 2013 – Installed as Supreme Pontiff.

Throughout his earthly ministry, Pope Francis fervently proclaimed God’s boundless mercy, sowed seeds of hope among the faithful, journeyed to many lands, and ministered with tender care to the weak—thus setting an exemplary model of pastoral leadership.

During this sacred Easter Octave, Bishop Stephen Lee of Macau, together with all the brothers and sisters in Christ, earnestly prays for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis and that he may soon be welcomed into the eternal Kingdom. We also extend our sincere gratitude for the expressions of sympathy received from all well-meaning members of the public.

The Diocese will, in due course, announce the arrangements for the memorial services.

Catholic Diocese of Macau

22nd April 2025  

www.catholic.org.mo