Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 5) — The Manila Cathedral announced on Wednesday that it will hold a Requiem Mass for the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Jan. 6.
Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula and Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Reverend Charles Brown will lead the Eucharistic Celebration at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Manila Metropolitan Cathedral at 5 p.m.
“Everyone is invited to join us in thanking the Lord for his life and ministry through the Holy Eucharist,” the cathedral’s advisory said.
The Manila Cathedral also opened its Christ the King Chapel for followers who wanted to offer prayers, light candles, and write in the book of condolences for the late church leader.
Benedict XVI died at age 95 at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, where he resided after he resigned in 2013.
The Vatican announced his passing on Dec. 31, almost a decade after he became the first pontiff in almost 600 years to resign from his position rather than hold office for life.
The pontiff lay-in-state since Monday in St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City ahead of his funeral later this week.
Pope Francis will lead the funeral Mass of Benedict XVI on Thursday 9:30 a.m. (Rome time) at St. Peter’s Square.
After the funeral Mass, the late pope’s body will be carried to his final resting place in the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica.
