Azerbaijan joins global mourning with condolence books for Pope Francis

In tribute to the late Pope Francis, condolence books have been opened worldwide, with Azerbaijan's Office of the Apostolic Prefecture of the Catholic Church also offering residents the chance to sign and honor his memory.

These books allow Catholic believers and other members of the public to express their heartfelt condolences and honour the late pope's legacy, Caliber.Az reports via local media. 

Additionally, a special service will be organised to pay respects to Pope Francis.

"Detailed information regarding the locations and dates for the opening of the condolence books will be made available on our online platforms on April 22," the office noted, ensuring that the public will be informed about how they can participate in this moment of remembrance.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and one of the most consequential religious figures of the 21st century, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on April 21.

His death ends a historic and often contentious 12-year papacy defined by sweeping reforms, internal tensions, and global outreach.

“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a video statement on Vatican TV. “At 7:35 this morning the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father”.

The Pope’s passing came just a day after he made a brief public appearance in St. Peter’s Square to mark Easter Sunday—his first since being released from hospital on March 23 following a 38-day stay to treat double pneumonia.

By Naila Huseynova