The St. Edward's University community joins the millions of people around the world in mourning for the death of our Holy Father Pope John Paul II. Yet even as we mourn his death, we celebrate his life, pray for the repose of his soul and give thanks for his ministry as pope and for his witness of our Catholic faith, hope and love.

According to Vatican officials, the funeral Mass for Pope John Paul II will be held the morning of Friday, April 8, and he will be interred in the grotto beneath St. Peter's Basilica. In Austin, the Mass will be broadcast live at 3 a.m. at St. Mary Cathedral, located at 10th and Brazos streets. Following the viewing of the funeral Mass, Bishop Gregory Aymond will celebrate Mass. Attendees are invited to stay for breakfast and fellowship in the Bishop's Hall after Mass.

In addition, the university's scheduled Mass at noon on Friday, April 8, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel will be a Mass for the Dead for Pope John Paul II. The university community is invited to celebrate Eucharist and his new resurrected life.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has posted information about the Holy Father, as well as Scriptural readings and other resources in English and Spanish. For additional information, contact Campus Ministry, 448-8499.