Zim opens Book of Farewell for Fallen Pope! Catholics invited to pay tribute to Francis the Fearless

Sikhumbuzo Moyo
ZIMBABWE is mourning.
A condolence book in honour of Pope Francis, who died this morning in Vatican City, will be opened tomorrow at the Apostolic Nunciature in Mount Pleasant, Harare — giving local faithful a chance to say their final goodbyes to the beloved Pontiff.

From Tuesday to Thursday, Zimbabwe’s Catholic bishops, clergy, and religious superiors are invited to sign the book between 10AM–1PM and 3PM–5PM at 5 St. Kilda Road.
In a statement, Apostolic Nuncio Janusz Urbanczyk said:

“Let us remain united in prayers while inviting the Catholic faithful in Zimbabwe to raise theirs to the Almighty God for the Eternal Rest of Pope Francis.”
The Apostolic Nunciature, the Vatican’s diplomatic mission, is the Holy See’s equivalent of an embassy — and this symbolic gesture is one of the first public acts of mourning in Zimbabwe since the Pope’s passing.

Meanwhile, the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) poured out heartfelt condolences, saying Pope Francis was more than just a spiritual leader.
“He was a voice for justice, peace, and dignity. His visits to Africa were not just symbolic — they brought hope and unity. He listened to us. He stood with us,” read the SECAM statement.

Pope Francis, who was 88, leaves behind a towering legacy. His humility, bold stance on social issues, and deep love for the poor earned him respect even beyond Church walls.
Now, from the streets of Rome to the prayer halls of Harare, the faithful gather to mourn — and honour — a Pope who walked with the people.