I THE LATE POPE.

Auckland Star, Volume LIII, Issue 22, 27 January 1922, Page 5

I THE LATE POPE.

■ SERVICE AT ST PATRICK'S. IMPRESSIVE REQUIEM MASS. Throughout the Dominion Catholics have gathered during the last few days at Pontifical solemn requiem mass held in honour of the late Pope Benedict XV. The Auckland service was held this morning in St. Patrick's Cathedral, adherents of the faith assembling in such large numbers that the accommodation was fully taxed. To solemn processional music the clergy followed the cross-bearer and acolytes, in full canonicals, Bishop Liston, two Monsignori, a deacon and subdeacon, two masters of ceremonies, and 38 priests occupying the sanctuary. Twelve priests formed the choir, Monsignor Ormond and Father Forde being the chanters, while Mr. H. Hiscocks officiated at the organ. The whole service was very beautiful in it* harmony and solemnity. His Grace Bishop Liston remarked at length on the life and character of the late Pope, stressing in particular his great) charity, particularly during the war, and the fact that he was a strong exponent of peace. He said that Pope Benedict XV. reign was of average duration—seven years. He would go down in history a 3 the Pope of the Great World War. and (he Pope of Peace. Referring to his humanity Bishop Liston said that after the war the late Pope had been instrumental in saving many thousands of lives. He died leaving Popedom more honoured than when be came to the throne. He always had a warm sympathy for poor and afflicted Ireland in her misery! and he hoped that the dawning freedom would be one of glorious perpetuity.