‘A loss felt deeply’: Richmond Catholics honor Pope Francis after his death

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, led the Roman Catholic Church for more than 12 years until he died at the age of 88 on Easter Monday.

Guiding over a billion Catholics globally, the loss was felt around the world. In Richmond, dozens gathered at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart for a special honorary Mass led by Bishop Barry Knestout.

"With the loss of a pope, there's always that sadness—someone we know and care about being gone from us,” Knestout said.

In Richmond, dozens gathered at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart for a special honorary Mass led by Bishop Barry Knestout following the death of Pope Francis. (Photo courtesy: 8News)

The day before his death, Pope Francis made what would be his final public appearance outside the Vatican for Easter Sunday, also meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance. Just weeks prior, Vatican officials had reported his condition was improving, despite his battle with double pneumonia.

Cardinals said he passed away at 7:35 a.m. Monday morning, and ultimately suffered a cerebral stroke that took his life.

“Having the passing occur at this time of year, though, is encouraging to us... because it's the time of the resurrection, where we reflect on our Lord's new life and the life he gives to us," Knestout said.

Knestout knew the Pope personally, and said he was someone who "had a very simple, conversational kind of style about him which brought him close to people."

That connection was reflected in the turnout at Monday’s Mass as churchgoers sang hymns, lit candles and shared solemnity.

"I'm just so honored to have been here on the day, because he did pass,” said churchgoer Diana Junco. “But it's such a special day—it’s the day after Easter.”

As the first Latin American pontiff, Pope Francis brought a unique presence to the Vatican, and Bishop Knestout encouraged the community to carry on the pope’s legacy.

"Pope Francis wanted to emphasize very much our call to charity, and a call to love one another- to reach out in care and concern for those who are maybe most distant from us," Knestout said.

Though funeral arrangements are still being finalized, Pope Francis had previously announced his intention to be buried at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome—a departure from many popes traditionally being laid to rest at the Vatican.