The Archbishop of Rabat, Cristóbal López Romero, paid tribute to Pope Francis following the news of his death, describing him as «a friend who knew me and spoke to me»,and someone who brought new energy to the Church's mission in the Mediterranean. Speaking from Vatican City after the first General Congregation of Cardinals, the Archbishop highlighted the impact of the Pope's 2019 visit to Morocco, calling it «unforgettable» and noting that King Mohammed VI himself had used that very word. «I've received many messages of condolence from the Islamic world», he added, saying the Pope's presence in Morocco had left a «very strong mark». When asked whether the King would attend the funeral, he said: «I don't know if he will come, but if he can't, he will send his son». The Holy See Press Office announced on Tuesday that Pope Francis' funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City. Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88. In Morocco, he is remembered for his 2019 visit, during which he met King Mohammed VI, visited the Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, and celebrated a historic Mass attended by thousands, including migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, calling for a culture of mercy and fraternity. He also met with religious leaders, visited Caritas Morocco to show solidarity with migrants, and signed a joint appeal with the King on Jerusalem's status as a city of peace. In a letter of condolences, King Mohammed VI described Pope Francis as «an eminent religious figure who dedicated his life to serving high human ideals and common values rooted in faith, freedom, peace, love, and solidarity among different peoples».
