An Post has announced it will send Mass or sympathy cards to the Vatican free of charge for those wishing to honour the late Pope Francis, reports Breaking News.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who passed away on Easter Monday, has been affectionately referred to as the “people’s pope” for his advocacy for the poor and for choosing a simpler lifestyle during his papacy.
Crowds have gathered in St Peter’s Square, with many waiting for hours—some even overnight—for the opportunity to pay tribute to Pope Francis, reports Breaking News.
The national postal service stated that it would facilitate the delivery of Mass and sympathy cards to the Vatican without cost for anyone in Ireland wanting to send condolences.
Post offices had received several public inquiries regarding the correct address and postage needed for sending cards to the Vatican, reports Breaking News.
In response, An Post said it would handle the cards free of charge and organise a single delivery from Ireland to the Vatican in three weeks’ time.
An Post issued the following instructions: “Cards may be posted to the following PO Box for free until May 14 and An Post will ensure they are delivered directly to the Vatican. Cards to the Vatican, PO Box 13812, FREEPOST, Dublin 1,” reports Breaking News.
On Thursday, Taoiseach Micheál Martin visited the Apostolic Nunciature in Dublin to sign a book of condolence for Pope Francis.
Books of condolences are also available to the public at several locations: St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral in Dublin, Galway Cathedral, the Apparition Chapel in Knock, and St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh, reports Breaking News.
A memorial Mass in honour of Pope Francis will also take place at 7pm on Thursday at St Patrick’s Cathedral, with Archbishop Eamon Martin serving as the main celebrant.
Attending the funeral on Saturday will be Archbishop Martin; President Michael D Higgins and his wife, Sabina; Taoiseach Micheál Martin; and Tánaiste Simon Harris.
World leaders including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are also expected to be present, reports Breaking News.
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