The Catholic community in Los Angeles and around the globe is mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday morning, hours after he delivered an Easter blessing and greeted thousands in St. Peter's Square. According to KTLA, Archbishop José H. Gomez of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles expressed his grief, saying, "I join the family of God here in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and Catholics all over the world, in grieving the loss of our Holy Father." Local parishioners attended Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels as the community began its period of mourning.
In response to the pope's passing, Archbishop Gomez emphasized the pontiff's attentiveness to issues in Los Angeles, including his words of comfort after the January wildfires. As reported by NBC Los Angeles, Gomez stated, "It was just in January that he offered prayers and words of consolation as we faced the destruction caused by the wildfires in the Palisades and Altadena." Gomez will honor the legacy of Pope Francis in a 12:10 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral, remembering his "many kindnesses and expressions of pastoral care."
Civic leaders also shared their condolences and reflections on the impact of Pope Francis. CBS Los Angeles reported statements from Archbishop Emeritus Cardinal Roger Mahony and LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn. Mahony shared his personal connection with the pope, mentioning, "He was a good and gracious friend," while Hahn acknowledged the pope's influence on broader global issues.
California Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined the chorus of voices paying tribute to Pope Francis. According to a statement on the official governor's website, Newsom said, "He saw God in all His creatures, reminding us of humanity's obligations towards each other and the world we live in." Newsom praised the late pontiff's leadership and moral courage, especially in addressing climate change and his advocacy for the disadvantaged.
The legacy of Pope Francis is set to be honored through continued efforts in social justice and environmental stewardship, as he often underscored these issues during his papacy.
