On Monday, people in Las Vegas gathered at Guardian Angel Cathedral to mourn the death of Pope Francis. Many attended mass to honor his memory and reflect on his impact, especially on poor and immigrant communities. According to Fox5Vegas, Carmen Shacon, one of the attendees, said, “He did so many good things, he was outspoken. He spoke for the poor, and he loved people, and I love that he was so outspoken – I feel sad.”
In May 2023, the Diocese of Las Vegas was elevated to an archdiocese by Pope Francis. Archbishop George Leo Thomas recalled a meeting with the pope, saying, “The time we spent with him in that three hours to hear him speak with such tenderness for the immigrant and the poor. I thought it was one of the most moving meetings I’ve ever had in my life.” Following the death of Pope Francis, local residents shared their reactions. Maria Luisa Martinez said, “We’re a little happy because he stopped suffering but at the same time, we are sad because we were so happy with him as our pope.” Another community member said, “I pray for his departed soul, may he rest in eternal peace, and I also I pray for the next. That he will be whoever he will be to help us to come close to know Jesus, to the love for the poor, the love of all those who are suffering” as reported by Fox5Vegas.
Las Vegas and the world respond to the passing of the pope, local leaders are reflecting on what qualities the next pontiff should have. Archbishop Thomas told to KTNV that the next pope should be “a unifier... a man who will continue to be a voice for the needy.” Laity member Patrick Gibson said, “For the next pope, he should be as reverend and like as close to Jesus as ever.” The upcoming conclave and selection process remain a focus for many as the Church prepares to choose a new leader.
