Faiths Unite in Grief and Gratitude for Pope Francis at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Memorial Mass

In a rare and deeply moving show of interfaith unity, religious leaders and faithful from the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions gathered this afternoon at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan for a solemn memorial Mass honoring the late Pope Francis.

The cathedral, filled with mourners of all backgrounds, resonated with prayer and reflection as leaders paid tribute to a pontiff who transcended religious boundaries and lived a life marked by humility, compassion, and courage.

“For us, children of Abraham, moments of sorrow are always times of prayer,” said the celebrant during the homily. “That is what unites us this afternoon — the power of prayer in the face of loss, and the enduring gift of Pope Francis’ example.”

Described as a “troubadour of God’s mercy,” Pope Francis was remembered for his unyielding message of forgiveness and tenderness. Throughout his papacy, he urged the world to show kindness, especially to the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten.

The congregation prayed first for mercy — for the soul of Pope Francis — then for consolation, recognizing the depth of grief shared not only by Catholics but by people of many faiths who admired the Holy Father.

“For Catholics, this is like a death in the family,” the homilist said, noting the symbolic timing of the Pope’s passing — the day after Easter, as the Octave of Passover had just concluded. “He returned to the home of the Father, even as Christ’s resurrection was fresh in our hearts.”

The Mass concluded with prayers of thanksgiving. Mourners gave praise for Pope Francis' life, recalling his vulnerability, his openness about aging and illness, and the courage with which he bore them. Seen in a wheelchair and with an oxygen tube in his final days, the Pope continued to inspire — not through perfection, but through authenticity.

“No wonder we cry ‘Alleluia’ in this Easter season,” the priest proclaimed. “No wonder we gather under the light of the Risen Christ.”

Known for his simple, direct homilies, Pope Francis was even recalled with a touch of humor. “He often complained when priests preached too long,” the celebrant quipped, drawing light laughter from the crowd.

Perhaps most poignantly, the Mass ended with the Pope’s own request — one he offered to everyone he met throughout his life: “Please, pray for me.”

And that, they did — united in prayer, grief, and gratitude for a Pope who changed the world.