Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Upon the news of Pope Francis’s death on April 21, Bishop John Noonan conducted a mass at St. James Cathedral to honor the Pope’s life, emphasizing his commitment to the poor and reforming the Church.

“Pope Francis came into the world and knelt down before the people and asked the people to pray for him,” Bishop Noonan said, adding a shared sentiment with the Pope, “As you pray for me, I pray for you.”

Reflecting on his last meeting with the Pope during an ad limina visit to Rome, Bishop Noonan praised Pope Francis for his authenticity and straightforward nature. "He was a joy to be around," he said, noting the simple way Pope Francis lived his life and his mission to reform the Curia.

Father García of Holy Cross Parish, who was present at the mass, shared his early impressions of Pope Francis, particularly admiring his humility when he was first elected. Father García attended World Youth Day in 2023 and recalled the Pope’s ability to connect with young people. “It was really impactful to see this pope who, from the beginning, showed humility and a simplicity in the closeness with the people,” Father García shared.

Deacon Dave Camous recounted an emotional connection to the Pope through a call from his daughter, who felt seen by the Pope's teachings. Camous highlighted Pope Francis's dedication to drawing attention to the marginalized.

Father Mills expressed his admiration for Pope Francis’s teachings on God’s mercy, saying that the Pope “never talked about God’s mercy as something he was there to give to you.” Instead, the Pope always emphasized bringing people to Christ to receive that mercy through their relationships with Him.

Acknowledging Pope Francis’s personal experiences with immigration, Father González remarked on the Pope’s understanding of the struggles faced by immigrants, advocating for unity and the theme of hope. “We are all sons and daughters of God and, because we are brothers and sisters, we must continue this journey together,” said Father González.

Cardinals worldwide are assembling in Rome to elect a new pope, with preparations for the Pope’s burial underway. Father González confirmed the Pope's ring, a symbol of his authority, has been crushed, marking the end of his papacy. A two-thirds majority vote will be required to elect a new pope, with cardinals representing global diversity, a reflection of Pope Francis's influence.

Bishop Noonan concluded the service, emphasizing the Pope’s wish for people to understand and embrace the Sacred Heart of Jesus. “His last encyclical (Dilexit Nos) was about the heart, change your heart,” said Bishop Noonan. “And the heart of Francis was to bring peace into our world.”

Pope Francis’s burial is scheduled for April 26 at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, a site with deep significance to the Jesuit community. Parishes are organizing vigils and Eucharistic Adoration in his memory.

Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic Staff reported this on April 24, 2025.