Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Within hours of Pope Francis's death on Easter Monday, April 21, news spread to communities worldwide, including areas the pontiff frequently urged the church to engage with. At the Cathedral of the Assumption's Sandifur Dining Hall, volunteers continued their efforts to prepare meals despite the news.

Milton Hettinger, volunteering at the dining hall, received the notification during his morning meditation and expressed gratitude for Pope Francis's farewell on Easter Sunday. "I said, 'Wait a minute. He was just talking to his people yesterday.' He got to say goodbye to us," Hettinger said. Reflecting the pope's values, Hettinger commented, “We’re here doing what he wants us to do. Pope Francis was a fantastic man.”

Eileen Brown, another volunteer, was shocked by the news. "I was very saddened. I found him to be an extraordinary man, as humble as any religious person could be. He loved the common person very much," Brown stated. She remarked on the symbolism of his passing on the "Day of the Angels."

Volunteer Cheri Hill found Pope Francis's appearance on Easter "a beautiful miracle." Meanwhile, Lelia Sublett, who watched the Vatican's Easter celebration, described him as "the people's pope."

Churchgoers attending a noon Mass at the Cathedral reflected on Pope Francis's life and legacy. Father Joseph Graffis acknowledged the mixed emotions felt by many, saying, “We gather with some sadness as well as some joy. What a great time to go be with the Lord.”

Attendees also offered their thoughts. Russ Read of Holy Trinity Church felt sadness and gratitude, believing it was no coincidence Pope Francis received an extra day to deliver his message. Carolyn Miles, another parishioner, remembered him as "a pope for the people."

Sam Corbett aligned himself with the pope's focus on inclusivity and helping the poor, while Father Frederick Klotter shared personal encounters with Pope Francis, recalling experiences filled with warmth and comfort.

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre is scheduled to celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving at the Cathedral on April 22 at 6 p.m. The public is invited to join the service in honor of Pope Francis.