The Catholic community in Namibia is mourning, following the death of Pope Francis earlier today in Rome. 

The news has sent shockwaves across the globe.

Speaking to nbc News, Archbishop Liborius Nashenda expressed sorrow, shock and a profound sense of spiritual loss.

He said the Pope's death is not only a loss for Catholics or Catholic believers but for many people throughout the world. 

He likened the Pontiff to a shepherd of peace, a moral compass, and a symbol of unity.

Archbishop Nashenda has directed that the Catholic Church across the country mobilise to honour the late Pontiff. 

"The first one will be to request all the parishes within the Catholic community to celebrate Mass in the intention of the Holy Father from tomorrow until the day of the funeral. Secondly, at St Mary's we would like to organise a special memorial Mass, which will take place on the 23rd of April 2025 at 18h00. And thirdly, we are going to open a book of condolences which will be opened in front of the cathedral of St Mary's and ask from the 23rd from 7 o'clock in the morning to 19h00 so that everybody who wants to send a special message is at liberty to do that. And lastly, we are going to write a short note encouraging all the people of goodwill to join us during this very critical time of mourning our Holy Father, who is our Chief Shepherd."

He said the State of Vatican will guide on the way forward regarding the funeral arrangements of Pope Francis.

Despite having been hospitalised earlier this month with respiratory complications, Pope Francis led a brief mass yesterday, offering words of hope and blessings. 

On Monday morning Rome woke up to the sad news that Francis had died.

Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, made an announcement on the official Vatican website.

Farrel said Francis, the Bishop of Rome, returned to the house of the Father, and his entire life was devoted to serving the Lord and His Church.

The message further said that Francis taught the church and the world to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.

According to the Vatican, a conclave comprising 120 Cardinals will soon be called to allow the church leadership to elect a new leader.