Northeast Louisiana Catholics to Honor Pope Francis with Memorial Mass
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April 25, 2025FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 25, 2025Northeast Louisiana Catholics to Honor Pope Francis with Memorial Mass
Dean Peter Mangum Encourages Northeast Louisiana Christians to Join in Prayer, Reflection, and Unity
MONROE, La. — Catholics across the globe are mourning the death of Pope Francis, and here in Northeast Louisiana, Father Peter Mangum, Dean of the Eastern Deanery and pastor of Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, is rallying the faithful to honor the Holy Father’s enduring legacy.
A Memorial Mass for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis will be held on Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Matthew Catholic Church. All are invited to attend. Fellowship will follow in the Community Center after Mass.
“Pope Francis inspired a new generation of faithful with his humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the poor,” said Father Mangum. “His death is a profound loss, but also a moment to reflect on the legacy he leaves behind—one rooted in mercy, love, and inclusion.”
“Even though we knew Pope Francis was ill, his passing came as a surprise. Just a day earlier, he appeared in public to offer his Easter blessing,” said Father Mangum. “We mourn his loss, but we also give thanks for his compassion, his humility, and the way he reminded the Church to reach out to the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten.”
Pope Francis’ message of mercy profoundly shaped Father Mangum’s priesthood. “From the beginning of his papacy, the Holy Father emphasized mercy. That message has never left me, it shaped the kind of shepherd I strive to be,” he said.
Under Pope Francis’ leadership, the Church has seen a dramatic renewal in interest from young adults and spiritual seekers. This movement is tangible in Northeast Louisiana, where the local Catholic Church is experiencing a true revival. At this year’s Easter Vigil, 325 individuals entered the Catholic Church in Northeast Louisiana, an extraordinary 63% increase from last year’s 199.
“This kind of growth is more than just a number,” said Father Mangum. “It’s a testament to the impact Pope Francis had on hearts around the world, including here in the South. People are hungering for truth, beauty, and belonging, and they are finding it in the Catholic Church.”
“Pope Francis had a unique way of making the ancient beauty of our faith accessible to today’s world,” Father Mangum added. “He inspired many to explore Catholicism for the first time, especially here in the South, where many are rediscovering the richness of tradition and the reverence of the liturgy.”
Father Mangum serves as Dean of the Eastern Deanery, a regional area within the Catholic Diocese of Shreveport that covers much of Northeast Louisiana. This area includes 16 Catholic churches and chapels, serves around 16,000 Catholics, and is home to three of the Diocese’s six Catholic schools. As Dean, Father Mangum supports the mission of Catholic life alongside fellow pastors, associate priests, and a hospital chaplain.
As the local Church continues to reflect on the Holy Father’s legacy, the Eastern Deanery of the Diocese of Shreveport invites all Catholics and those seeking spiritual depth to join in prayer, thanksgiving, and remembrance.
Memorial Mass for Pope Francis
Saint Matthew Catholic Church, Monroe, LA
Saturday, April 26 | 10:00 a.m.Divine Mercy Holy Hour
Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Monroe, LA
Sunday, April 27 | 2:30 p.m.Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.
For more information, please contact:
Jennifer Patterson
(318) 325-7549
www.nelacatholics.org