‘A legacy of humanity:' Sisters of St. Joseph honor Pope Francis' mission
PITTSFORD, N.Y. (WROC) – As Catholics across the world mourn the death of Pope Francis, the loss of the pontiff's legacy is being felt at home.
Mass for the Sisters of St. Joseph in Pittsford was held with a somber tone Monday morning, following news of the Pope's passing.
'We're shocked. We're stunned, and we're sad. We grew attached to him. He exuded warmth, a down-to-earth man with the people,' said Sr. Patricia Schoelles, who has served with the Sisters of St. Joseph for more than 50 years.
Pope Francis' tenure, she says, brought a different form of leadership for Catholics worldwide.
'I think this Pope, more than any previous Pope, has left a legacy of humanity and of humanitarianism. There's a quote in one of our documents that says, 'The joys and hopes, the fears and anxiety of all humanity are those of the church.' To me, the leadership of Pope Francis has done just that. It has shown us how to be with humanity and among humanity and especially the ones among us who are suffering the most, the least among us,' said Sr. Schoelles.
Sr. Marilyn Pray prepared a new homily Monday, after learning of the Pope's death. Sr. Pray included messages of hope and prayer, as well as a question.
'With this morning's news – I think we can add to that, what's next for us and for our church?' said Sr. Pray.
As communities await what's next and potential successors, they are taking time to grieve and honor Pope Francis' legacy.
'I think we all need to express our sorrow and express our hope that the church will go on. Somehow, that his vision will be incorporated in our future years. That the future will make a difference because he made a difference for our future. That's my hope. The days are hopeful as well as filled with sorrow,' said Sr. Schoelles.
A mass will be held in the Pope's honor this Friday at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Rochester. The public is welcome to attend. The service will begin at 7 p.m.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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