All catholic edu institutions remain shut in Mizoram to mourn pope’s death

Aizawl: Catholic educational institutions in the Aizawl diocese remained closed on Tuesday to mourn the passing of Pope Francis, following a communique from Most Rev Stephen Rotluanga, Bishop of Aizawl Diocese. The announcement declared a nine-day mourning period (Novemdiales), as directed by the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), in accordance with Catholic traditions upon the death of a pope.
The Bishop said it is customary for the church to organise prayer services on the day of the funeral. "If it is a working day, the institutions will organise prayer service for the departed soul of the Supreme Pontiff in the respective institutions," he said.
During the mourning period, all institutions will fly their flags, including the Vatican flag, at half-mast, while portraits of Pope Francis will be displayed in local churches and institutions. Faithful members have been encouraged to recite the rosary or divine mercy chaplet for nine consecutive days, he added.
The Bishop also announced that a special requiem mass will be held at Christ the King Cathedral Parish in Kulikawn on the day of Pope Francis' funeral. Priests, religious leaders, and all faithful are invited to attend. Christ the King Cathedral, Mizoram's first Catholic parish, was built in 1927, marking a historical significance.
Additionally, during the Easter Octave, the church will continue to celebrate daily mass but will omit the Pope's name in Eucharistic prayers until a new Pope is elected. Special prayers for the departed soul will be included, mentioning Pope Francis during the mourning period.
On Monday, the Bishop expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of Mizoram's Catholic community, highlighting Pope Francis' lifelong dedication to God, the church, and uplifting the poor and less fortunate. Born in 1936, Pope Francis inspired Christians worldwide to live with courage, determination, and love.