Archbishops of Toronto, Montreal to hold mass for Pope Francis

Mass for Pope Francis

Photo: The Canadian Press

Votive candles are lit inside St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica in Toronto after the death of Pope Francis, on Monday, April 21, 2025. 

Canada's newest cardinal will lead a mass in honour of Pope Francis this afternoon.

Cardinal Frank Leo, Archbishop of Toronto, will preside at a mass for the repose of the soul of the pontiff at St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica before meeting with the media.

The Vatican announced yesterday that Francis had died of a stroke and heart failure at age 88, just after the end of Holy Week. The funeral will be held on Saturday in St. Peter's Square.

Leo was among the last group of cardinals Francis elevated into the role back in December, and one of five cardinals from Canada. He will also preside over an evening prayer for the late pope.

In Montreal, Archbishop Christian Lépine will preside over an evening requiem mass at the Mary Queen of the World Cathedral, followed by a vigil.

Both masses will be livestreamed on YouTube.