Erie community shows support for new pope at special mass
Catholics around the world have a new face of leadership as Pope Leo XIV takes the reins from the late Pope Francis.
Monday night, Erie's Catholic community came together for a special mass at Saint Peter Cathedral on West 10th Street to celebrate the new pontiff and pray for his future as leader of the Catholic Church.
'I think the cardinal electors, led by the Holy Spirit, picked the right man for this era and what is needed to lead the church. It's something that I personally thought would never happen, that they would elect someone from the United States, but then again, that's the Holy Spirit at work,' said Bishop Lawrence Persico, Erie Catholic Diocese.
Bishop Lawrence Persico speaks on passing of Pope Francis
Bishop Persico says the mass for Pope Leo is a sign of unity in the catholic church, but also a celebration of new leadership.
Nearly 100 local Catholics showed up to the mass, both praying and showing support for the Catholic Church's new leader.
'He needs a lot of support and prayers. There's a lot to be done in our world, let alone in our own community,' said Michael Gallagher, a Fairview resident.
'This is not something he can do with his own human abilities. It's something that God has called him to and therefore we have to support him,' said Kathleen Dietz, Sister of the Spiritual Family 'The Work.'
Both Gallagher and Dietz say they like the cardinals' choice of Pope Leo and are excited about the idea of an American pope.
What happens if a pope resigns?
As the new pontiff is just starting his papacy, Catholics still aren't sure what kind of leader Leo will be, but are hopeful for the future.
'It happened so quickly, and that means that the cardinals were unified, and that's really important,' said Dietz.
'I think we need some changes still, and I think that if he follows Pope Francis and finishes what he started, I think that will be a really good thing for everyone,' said Gallagher. Pope Leo's inaugural mass is scheduled for May 18th in Saint Peter's Square.
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