As the Vatican laid Pope Francis to rest today, the Archdiocese of Imphal joined the world in mourning with a solemn Requiem Mass at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Mantripukhri.
Held at dawn, the service drew hundreds of faithful who gathered in silence, prayer, and unity.
The 6:30 AM Mass included the Liturgy of the Hours, the Holy Rosary, and the Office for the Dead, offered in remembrance of the late Pope, who passed away on April 21.
Later in the day, as the funeral Mass began in Rome at 1:30 PM IST, church bells rang for one full minute across all parishes in Manipur, a powerful symbol of shared grief and solidarity.
“This is a deeply moving moment for the entire Catholic Church,” said Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Linus Neli, D.D., following the morning service.
“Pope Francis was not just a shepherd to Catholics but a moral voice for the entire world. His life was a testament to compassion, justice, and humble service.”
Across Manipur, nearly 48 parish centers organised their own observances, many holding Requiem Masses on Friday or Saturday.
Parishioners were encouraged to watch the Vatican’s live funeral broadcast, connecting the local community with the global Church.
In Rome, over 200,000 mourners including heads of state, royalty, and common faithful gathered at St. Peter’s Square to pay final respects. The 266th Pontiff and the first from Latin America, Pope Francis is being laid to rest at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, honoring his personal wish.
