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

On April 22, a Mass of Thanksgiving for Pope Francis was held at the Cathedral of the Assumption. The liturgy, attended by over 300 people, took place a day after the 88-year-old pontiff's passing. The event, filled with Easter flowers in vibrant colors, was led by Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre alongside 27 priests.

The archbishop expressed a dual sentiment of Easter joy and loss, inviting the congregation to reflect on Pope Francis' impactful statements. He recalled two profound quotes that resonated with him. The first emphasized church leaders should "smell like the sheep." Through this, the pope communicated a universal call to action for leaders to empathize closely with the needful.

Archbishop Fabre noted Pope Francis' consistent pastoral approach, exemplified by the Good Shepherd cross he wore. "Pope Francis encouraged us to face challenges with determination — not from a distance, but by being close to those in need," Fabre stated. He urged those present to remember this aspect of ministry in honor of the pope.

The second image highlighted was the pope's depiction of the church as "a field hospital after battle," illustrating his compassion for those facing life's hardships. Fabre affirmed Pope Francis' dedication to the marginalized, mentioning his visits to prisons and refugee camps.

The archbishop further acknowledged that Pope Francis had many quotes that articulated the relationship with Jesus Christ, serving as a guiding force for church members.

Various parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Louisville also organized prayers for the Holy Father. St. Francis of Assisi Church held a Mass and adoration session, while St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church tolled its bells in memory of each year of Francis' pontificate. St. Catherine of Alexandria Church commenced a novena.

Kentucky state joined in mourning, with Gov. Andy Beshear ordering flags at state buildings to half-staff until the pope's interment. The governor called Pope Francis "The People's Pope," commending his approach of kindness and unity, saying, "His loss is great, but his impact is greater."