The government of Bangladesh has declared a three-day state mourning starting Thursday, following the passing of Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church.
A notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Wednesday evening confirmed the announcement. During the mourning period—Thursday through Saturday—the national flag will be flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government, autonomous, and educational institutions, as well as private and government buildings nationwide and Bangladesh’s missions abroad.
In honor of the late pontiff, special prayers will be held for the peace of his departed soul.
Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church since March 2013 and was widely respected for his progressive reforms and compassionate leadership, died on Monday at the age of 88. He had recently spent over a month receiving treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, appearing to recover before his passing.
The Vatican has announced that his funeral will take place on Saturday, drawing global attention and tributes from leaders and faithful around the world.