memorial Mass-pope
SEOUL, April 24 (Yonhap) -- A respectful mass was held Thursday at Myeongdong Cathedral to honor the memory of the late Pope Francis and pray for his eternal rest.
News of the pontiff's unexpected passing caused “deep sorrow,” stated Archbishop of Seoul Archdiocese Peter Chung Soon-taick during the Mass held at the cathedral. As Catholics assembled to honor the deceased Pope, the mood was filled with somber mourning intertwined with thankfulness.
"However, we strongly believe that the pope has transitioned into everlasting life via the glory of Christ's resurrection," stated Archbishop Chung.
"He demonstrated to us the genuine essence of faithful living and strived to transform the Church into a welcoming space filled with compassion and spiritual recovery for all," he remarked when speaking about the pope’s impact.
He highlighted the Pope's particular bond with South Korea, evident during his five-day stay in the nation in 2014 when he interacted with individuals facing hardships or social exclusion. This included meeting survivors of Japan’s World War II-era military sexual exploitation—often called “comfort women”—as well as people living with disabilities.
He offered solace and instilled optimism within Korean society through his unpretentious and reserved nature, making a profound impact on numerous individuals.
The deceased pope is viewed by both the nation's Catholics and non-religious individuals as a spiritual guide characterized by profound empathy and a particular fondness for the country.
After being elected Pope in 2013, he picked South Korea for his inaugural visit in Asia. He also named two out of the four Korean cardinals so far. Thanks to his guidance, Seoul was chosen to host the 2027 World Youth Day, which makes South Korea only the second nation in Asia to have hosted this international gathering since the Philippines did it back in 1995.
During the Mass on Thursday, a video highlighted the late pontiff's life, particularly his dedication to theological work and faith, bringing tears to many attendees.
As reported by the Seoul Archdiocese, close to 10,000 individuals had visited the cathedral's memorial altar to pay tribute to Pope Francis by 7 p.m. the prior evening.
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