IN A special Mass at San Pedro Cathedral on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles urged the faithful to find strength and inspiration in the life and teachings of Pope Francis following the pontiff’s passing.
Pope Francis, the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Monday, April 20, 2025, after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest.
In his statement, Valles expressed "deep sorrow and a sense of loss," describing the Pope as a humble leader known for his compassion, humility, and focus on mercy and inclusion.
“Through his actions, our faith was deepened. He helped us see more clearly on the periphery,” Valles said, praising the Pope’s ability to bring people closer to the Church.
While acknowledging the sadness of the moment, Valles encouraged Dabawenyos not to be consumed by grief. Instead, he urged them to draw strength from the Pope's life and teachings.
“We lost such a wonderful man, but in our sadness, we shouldn’t be defeated, because he would be saddened by us being defeated by sadness,” Valles added.
The Archbishop also reflected on the significance of the Pope’s death occurring just after Easter. “We’re sorrowful in death, but what a day to die on Easter Monday,” he said. “We are happy to die because we go into eternal life. Pope Francis showed us that no one is excluded.”
Valles further announced that a special section would be dedicated to Pope Francis at San Pedro Cathedral, where his photos and memorabilia from his life and papacy will be displayed, providing a space for prayer and remembrance. Danjelou E. Beringuel, HCDC Intern