The Vicar General of
the Archdiocese of New York, led by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, sent an
instruction to priests on 22 February - ahead of time - on how to
proceed as "Jorge Mario Bergoglio nears the end of his earthly journey".
He
asked for prayers as Francis suffers from a respiratory illness. The
archdiocese "will observe the passing of his life in many prayerful
ways". Here are some of the ways suggested in the archdiocesan directive
(posted by Rich Raho on X.com):
• Upon hearing of the Pope's death, church bells may be rung 88 times, the number of years the Pope lived.
• The intention of the Pope would be included in regularly scheduled Masses.
• There are three formulas for Eucharists for a deceased Pope which may be used during the nine-day period of mourning.
•
A memorial space could be established in an area of the church that
does not compete with the significance of the altar, ambo, and
tabernacle. It may include the lighted paschal candle, a picture of the
Pope, a kneeler, candles to be lighted as part of prayer, and a book in
which people may write prayer intentions.
• A spray of flowers or a drape of cloth may be used to decorate the exterior of churches.
•
Requiem Masses may be celebrated in each parish or within a deanery.
Before His Eminence departs to join the other Cardinals in Rome, he will
celebrate Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral.
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