A solemn atmosphere enveloped the Holy Family Basilica on April 25 as Kenyans from across the political divide gathered to honour the life and legacy of the late Pope Francis. Among the high-profile attendees was former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who had just returned from Entebbe, Uganda, to pay his final respects at the special Mass.
Uhuru was joined by a host of dignitaries including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, NARC-Kenya leader Martha Karua, and DAP-K boss Eugene Wamalwa. Also present were Chief Justice Martha Koome, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, and former Attorney General and Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, signifying a strong show of unity in mourning.
The requiem Mass, held just a day before the Pope’s burial in Vatican City, was presided over by Bert Van Megen, Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya and South Sudan. In his message, Kalonzo Musyoka wrote, “We pray for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul and give thanks for his life of service to the Church and humanity.”
Before entering the Basilica, the leaders signed a condolence book placed at the entrance, joining thousands around the world who have been paying tribute to the late pontiff.
Meanwhile, in Rome, preparations for the Pope’s burial reached their final stages. According to Vatican News, Cardinal Kevin Farrell will preside over the Rite of Sealing of the Coffin at 8:00 PM on April 25 at St. Peter’s Basilica. The solemn rite will be attended by several cardinals, bishops, and senior Vatican officials.
The Pope’s body has been lying in state since Wednesday morning, with over 50,000 mourners having passed by the Altar of the Confession within just 24 hours.
The funeral Mass is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter’s Square, marking the start of the Novemdiales, a traditional nine-day period of mourning and daily Masses offered for the repose of a Pope’s soul.
Pope Francis leaves behind a rich legacy of compassion, reform, and a tireless pursuit of global peace and unity.
