Bangladesh’s Catholic Community Honors Late Pope Francis with Solemn Eucharistic Celebration

The Catholic Church in Bangladesh held a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Holy Rosary Church in Tejgaon on April 27.

The event was held to honor the memory of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The memorial Mass was marked by deep reverence and reflection as thousands gathered to pay tribute to the late pontiff.

Oblate Archbishop Bejoy N. D’Cruze of Dhaka presided over the Mass, joined by Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario, CSC, Bishop Subrata Boniface Gomes, Bishop Theotonius Gomes, Apostolic Nunciature Secretary Abel Taglo, and Father Jayant S. Gomes.

The ceremony was attended by diplomats, clergy, religious sisters and brothers, and an estimated 3,000 faithful from across the country.

In his homily, Archbishop D’Cruze reflected on Pope Francis' enduring legacy, calling him "a spiritual, wise, and visionary man illuminated by the light of the Holy Spirit." He emphasized the Pope’s teachings on humility, purity, and hope, saying, "He taught us not only to speak humbly but to live humbly and to embrace others with compassion."

"Pope Francis helped us understand the importance of becoming pilgrims of hope in a time marked by despair and uncertainty," the archbishop added, urging the faithful to carry forward the Pope’s message of unity and peace.

The liturgy was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony in memory of the late pontiff. Cardinal D’Rozario placed a floral tribute on behalf of the Church in Bangladesh, joined by the ambassadors of Italy and the Philippines, the Canadian High Commissioner, and representatives from the diplomatic missions of Switzerland, INDP, and other countries.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis became the first Jesuit and Latin American Pope in 2013. His 12-year papacy was marked by reforms in the Roman Curia, efforts to address climate change and social inequality, and a strong commitment to interfaith dialogue.

In his final days, Pope Francis faced declining health due to pneumonia following a bronchitis diagnosis earlier in the year. Nevertheless, just one day before his death, he made a brief but poignant appearance during Easter celebrations at St. Peter’s Square, offering his last public blessing.

The memorial Mass in Dhaka not only commemorated the Pope’s passing but also celebrated his enduring influence. As hymns rose from the packed church and incense filled the air, Bangladesh’s Catholic community united in mourning and gratitude for the life and legacy of Pope Francis.