Catholic churches across Tonga have draped purple and black cloths in mourning for Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday aged 88.
In Nukuʻalofa, parishes including Maʻufanga and Houmakelikao have adorned their sanctuaries, while Masses are being offered for the late pontiff. The Catholic Diocese of Tonga has joined the global Church in prayer and remembrance.
Cardinal Soane Patita Paini Mafi, Tonga’s first cardinal, is attending the funeral in Rome. He is also amongst the electors who will be in the conclave to elect the next pope.
Pope Francis passed away on 21 April at his Vatican residence following a stroke and heart failure, after battling double pneumonia. His body lies in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, where thousands have queued for hours to pay their respects.
His funeral will be held today at 10:00 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square (9:00 p.m Tonga time). Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re will preside over the ceremony, which marks the beginning of the traditional nine-day mourning period known as Novendiale.
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, breaking with centuries of papal tradition.
The Catholic community in Tonga continues to honour the late pope’s legacy of humility and service.
