Catholic churches across the United Arab Emirates are preparing to hold special Masses in honor of Pope Francis, following his passing on the morning of Monday, April 21, at 7:35 AM Rome time — just one day after Easter.
Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, who oversees Catholic communities in the UAE, Oman, and Yemen, has instructed all churches in the region to organize special commemorative Masses.
In a statement published on the Vicariate’s official Facebook page, Bishop Martinelli wrote:
“With deep sorrow, I inform the priests, religious, and the people of God in the Vicariate of Southern Arabia that our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, returned to the house of the Lord this morning at 7:35 AM Rome time.
May the Lord welcome him into His heavenly home and grant him eternal peace. The people of God in our vicariate will always be grateful for his tremendous service to the Church.”
Father Lennie J.A. Connully, parish priest of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubai, also announced that a special Mass will be held at his parish in honor of the late pope. The exact date and time of the ceremony will be announced soon.
