Books of Condolences in memory of Pope Francis opened at Divine Providence Cathedral from Moldovan capital

The Catholic community from Moldova mourns the passing of Pope Francis, whose death, although following a prolonged suffering has caused deep sorrow among the faithful. As a token of remembrance, a memorial has been arranged in the Divine Providence Cathedral from Chisinau, where two books of condolences were opened—one for officials and another for parishioners.

’’These books remain for posterity, memories and what the Supreme Pontiff meant. For believers, the book is available from the morning of April 22, while for officials, there is a more rigorous schedule. Thus, on April 23 and 24, as of 10:00 till 12:00 and respectively 15:00-18:00,’’ Father Vicar Gabriel Cochiorca told MOLDPRES.

The first to leave a message in the book for believers was Bishop Anton, recalling in a short text the kindness and care Pope Francis showed to  people in suffering.

Father said that a Holy Mass will be held at the Divine Providence Cathedral from Chisinau, in memory of the Supreme Pontiff, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 18:00. The service will be officiated by Mons. Cesare Lodeserto. ‘’The Holy Mass is an act of prayer for the eternal rest of Pope Francis,’’ Father Cochiorca said.

At the same time, other Catholic parishes of Moldova are organizing commemorative masses, urging the faithful to pray for the repose of the Supreme Pontiff, for the mourning Catholic Church and for those who will be called to choose the future spiritual leader of the Church.

The Congregation of Cardinals today ruled that the Pope's funeral would take place on 26 April at 10:00, at St. Peter's Basilica. The Pope's coffin will be transferred to St. Peter's Basilica on 23 April morning, the Vatican said.

Pope Francis, who died in the Vatican at the age of 88 on 21 April, suffered a stroke after being in convalescence following a double pneumonia, which required a 38-day hospitalization.