Two special services will take place in Paisley this week to honour the memory of Pope Francis, following the announcement of his passing at 7.35am on Monday 21st April 2025 at the age of 88.
Bishop John Keenan will celebrate Mass in St Mirin’s Cathedral on Tuesday, April 22 at 1pm, and again on Friday, April 25 at 3pm, giving members of the local Catholic community the opportunity to come together in prayer and remembrance.
The Vatican confirmed on Monday that Pope Francis died after a battle with pneumonia. His health had been a concern throughout 2025, with kidney issues also impacting him. Despite his illness, he made a public appearance on Easter Sunday, a gesture that was both moving and symbolic for many of the faithful.
Pope Francis was elected leader of the Catholic Church in March 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy was marked by a focus on compassion, humility, and outreach to the world’s most vulnerable people. As the first pope from the Americas, and the first Jesuit pope, he made history and inspired millions throughout his 12 years of leadership.
The upcoming services in Paisley are expected to be well-attended as the community joins the global Catholic family in mourning the loss of a much-loved pontiff.
Paisley Photographs 