Butuan: The Diocese of Butuan joined the mourning for Pope Francis on Monday, calling on the faithful to unite in solidarity with the global Catholic community to honor the late head of the Church.

According to Philippines News Agency, Bishop Cosme Damian Almedilla issued an instruction on Monday afternoon, directing all parishes within the diocese to ring their church bells every evening at 8 p.m. for two minutes. 'This period is a time for solemn reflection and communal prayer, honoring the life and dedicated service of our beloved Pope Francis,' the diocese stated.

The diocese also urged the faithful throughout Agusan del Norte and Butuan City to come together in faith and remembrance. In addition to the bell-ringing, parishes were instructed to encourage congregants to recite one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be during the two-minute period.

Similarly, the Diocese of Tandag in Surigao del Sur called upon its faithful to pause in prayer for the repose of Pope Francis's soul and to express gratitude for his unwavering service and profound witness to the Gospel. Bishop Ruben Labajo of the newly established Roman Catholic Diocese of Prosperidad requested all parishes within the diocese to hold a novena of Masses for nine consecutive days for the eternal repose of Pope Francis' soul.

Pope Francis established the Roman Catholic Diocese of Prosperidad on Oct. 15, 2024, and appointed Labajo as its first bishop. 'Let us unite in prayer as one Church during this time. A concelebrated Mass will also be held soon at our cathedral in thanksgiving for his life and ministry,' Labajo said.