BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Dozens of Western New Yorkers gathered at Saint Joseph Cathedral Wednesday evening to honor the life and legacy of Pope Francis.
They joined thousands around the world mourning the death of the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church.
Earlier in the day, lines stretched beyond the walls of Vatican City as mourners waited to pay their final respects at St. Peter's Basilica. The pope's body was transferred there in a procession and will lie in state for three days before his funeral on Saturday. Cardinals from around the globe are making their way to Rome for the service.
Locally, clergy led a special Mass in Downtown Buffalo at St. Joseph Cathedral. Attendees shared heartfelt memories of the late pope and reflected on his impact.
"I'm sorry, it's just very emotional for me," said Lancaster resident Gail Wojtowicz. "I still can't believe he's gone because we prayed for him for so long and then when he pulled out of it, I thought he was Scott free. I was just shocked."
Wojtowicz called Pope Francis her favorite pope, admiring his humility and compassion.
"This pope was so humble," she said. "He cared about the poor, the refugees, he washed the feet of prisoners. He was just the best."
Karen Laurent, a Buffalo resident and Franciscan associate, echoed that sentiment.
"I loved his charisma, also his humbleness," Laurent said, "Just being a simple man trying to do the best he can, opening to all people."
Some who paid their respects were not even Catholic but still felt compelled to honor Francis' legacy.
"I feel like he's a good man," said Charles Russell of Niagara County. "He's done a lot for the world. He mediates wars, he accepted the LGBTQ community into the church. That's a big step forward and I like him. I hope the church doesn't go back on their words."
Vito and Linda Casoni of Cheektowaga said they hope the next pope will keep Francis' values.
"What I respect him for is the position he has taken on certain issues, which I think are very relevant to what's going on in the world today, and the determination to make sure he continues with that message," Vito Casoni said. "I hope his successor will do that as well,"
Wojtowicz shared the same hope.
"I hope that the next Pope will be like Francis, where he'll be more progressive and again, really stressing for the poor people," she added.
