Exhortation to Prayer for the Eternal Rest of Pope Francis and for the Sacred College of Cardinals
I ask all pilgrims to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe at La Crosse and all friends of the Shrine to join the universal Church in prayer for the eternal rest of Pope Francis who died this morning in his residence in Vatican City State.
Let us pray to God the Father that Pope Francis who served as the Vicar of His Incarnate Son on earth may, through Divine Mercy, rest in peace. May Our Lady of Guadalupe, Virgin Mother of God and “our compassionate Mother” (Nican Mopohua, 26 & 30), and Saint Joseph, Patron of the Dying, assist Pope Francis as he passes from this life to the life which is to come.
Please pray also for the Sacred College of Cardinals whose principal responsibility is to elect the Roman Pontiff, the Successor of Saint Peter, and, both individually and as the Sacred College, to assist him “in the daily care of the universal Church” (can. 349). May the Cardinals of the Holy Roman Church, in obedience to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, be one in heart with the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Head and Shepherd of the flock of God the Father in choosing His Vicar on earth.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, make safe our way!
Purest Heart of Saint Joseph, keep safe our way!
Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke
April 21, 2025 – Monday of Easter Week.
