Viva 'o Rre! Remembering Servant of God King Francesco II of the Two Sicilies

Servant of God Francesco II, ora pro nobis

Tuesday evening a few close friends and devotees of Servant of God King Francesco II of the Two Sicilies gathered privately around my makeshift shrine dedicated to our revered King and prayed for his beatification as well as the canonization of his mother, our beloved Queen, Blessed Maria Cristina di Savoia.

Photo of King Francesco II lying in state with image of
his mother Blessed Maria Cristina to the right

Following our prayers, we watched with delight as the images of the Mass held in Naples were shared on social media and heartened by the gracious letter from His Royal Highness Prince Charles of Bourbon-Two Sicilies that was read to the attendees:

I extend to all those present my sincere best wishes for these festive days and my thanks for your participation in this evening's ceremony, in memory of our beloved Francesco II, Sovereign of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. It fills my heart with joy to be able to bring together so many people, because it is a sign of the still alive affection towards this great Sovereign, who has always loved his subjects and his country by sacrificing himself, leaving so many memories still alive in the heart of his people.

Today more than ever given the times we live in, may the figure of this great King always accompany and protect us.

I send you all my dearest and most affectionate wishes

Charles of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, Duke of Castro

Afterward, keeping the Christmas festivities going, we enjoyed some fellowship, lite fare, and wine, which I had blessed earlier at the Mass in honor of San Giovanni Evangelista. Viva 'o Rre!

For more information about the Beatification and Canonization process for Francesco II visit the Fondazione Francesco II delle Due Sicilie

Prayer for the Glorification of King Francis II of the Two Sicilies

[For private use only]

Absolve, we beseech Thee, O Lord, the soul of Thy servant HM Francis II, King of the Two Sicilies, from every bond of sin, that being raised in the glory of the resurrection, he may be refreshed among the Saints and Elect. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.