News On Japan

Prince Akishino Attends Memorial Mass for Pope Francis

ROME, Apr 28 (News On Japan) - The memorial mass for Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, was held in Tokyo, with Prince Akishino attending on behalf of the Emperor.

The memorial service took place at Tokyo Cathedral in Bunkyo Ward from 3 p.m. on April 27th, drawing around 1,000 participants.

Inside the cathedral, a wreath from the Emperor and Empress was displayed, and Prince Akishino attended as the Emperor’s representative.

In 2005, when Pope John Paul II passed away, the Emperor, then Crown Prince, attended the memorial mass.

Prince Akishino previously paid a courtesy visit to Pope Francis in Italy in 2016, during which he offered a white carnation and bowed in respect.

Source: FNN

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