As the Pope lies in state at Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, many honored the Pontiff Wednesday with prayers in Arlington. Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington led a memorial Mass for the Holy Father at the Cathedral of Saint Thomas More.

From the very first moment he appeared at the balcony and was introduced to the world as the successor to St. Peter, we saw the humility of Pope Francis,” Bishop Michael F. Burbidge said during a Mass for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis at the Cathedral of St.

People in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington gathered for a memorial Mass for Pope Francis at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More on April 23, 2025.