Ways to pray for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

The custom of praying the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father is to be encouraged, especially with school children, as is the recitation of the Rosary for the repose of his soul. Churches may display a portrait of the late Holy Father with black bunting, and church bells may be tolled.

It is the custom that the nine days following the funeral of a Pope are observed as official days of mourning in Rome and throughout the Church. The Novemdiales, as they are called, may be observed in different ways in the various Particular Churches. The USCCB will be publishing a novena prayer and making it available on their website.

Families are encouraged to display a picture in their home and to pray together for the repose of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI soul using the prayer on this website.