Parishioners react to passing of Pope Francis

Yahoo

21-04-2025

SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — People all around the globe are mourning the death of Pope Francis, including here in our area, where the faithful are coming together to celebrate his legacy.
Parishioners at Saint Peter's Cathedral say they were devastated by the news, but they come together in times of need like this.
The group at St. Peter's 6:30 a.m. mass tells 28/22 News it's like a family, as many of the same members go to the mass at this time routinely.
They prayed for Pope Francis by reciting the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be. But another way they've been paying tribute to him can be heard all across the city.
The bells at Saint Peter's Cathedral tolled 88 times before and after the 6:30 mass, signifying Pope Francis' age of 88-years-old when he died.
A photo of Pope Francis was also put on display inside the cathedral. The bells, remembrance, and prayers are being shared throughout the church community, something that parishioners say is a way they support one another through difficult times like this.
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Speaking to one of the church's congregants and Reverend Jeffrey Tudgay, they spoke on the devastation of the pontiff's death despite his recent health improvements, but also said it's bittersweet, stating it's our loss but heaven's gain.
'Got the news this morning that he had passed away. It was quite a shock, but on the other hand, we think there's much rejoicing in heaven because heaven now has a new saint. If anybody was a good and faithful servant, it was Pope Francis,' stated Joan Hodowanitz, parishioner at the Cathedral of Saint Peter.
'You know, we're in the easter season here. We celebrated easter sunday yesterday, Christ's victory over sin and death for all of us, and we trust the holy father now rests eternally in peace with the lord forever,' explained Rev. Tudgay, of Saint Peter's Cathedral.
The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, released the following statement upon the death of Pope Francis;
Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, on Pope FrancisDownload
The Diocese of Scranton stated there will be a special memorial mass held at St. Peter's Cathedral on Tuesday, April 22, at 12:10 p.m. All are invited to attend.
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