Priests and parishioners honored the life of the late Pope Francis at Covington’s Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption on Saturday.
Pope Francis, who died on April 21, was elected to the papacy in 2013 and held the position for nearly 12 years. Francis served as the first Jesuit pope, in addition to being the first pope from the Western Hemisphere. His name, Francis, was inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, who was known for his devotion to helping people in poverty.
Pope Francis’ funeral was held on April 26 in Rome, where international political leaders, dignitaries and high-ranking members of the Catholic Church gathered to celebrate his life and service.
Locally, the Diocese of Covington held a Requiem Mass at the historic cathedral, with Bishop John Iffert as the celebrant and Bishop Emeritus Roger Foys as the homilist.
Preceding the Requiem Mass, the diocese sang evening prayer from the Office of the Dead at the cathedral on April 25. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Covington ranks as one of Kentucky’s largest Latin Church dioceses, encompassing 11 counties in Northern Kentucky and its vicinity.
“Pope Francis’ legacy is one of compassion and renewed focus on the pastoral mission of the Church,” Iffert wrote in a letter published on the Diocese of Covington website on April 21. “His emphasis on mercy has reshaped the Church’s approach to its mission in the world, inviting all to embrace a more compassionate and engaged faith. As the Church continues to navigate the complexities of modern society, the writings and lived example of Pope Francis will remain vital in fostering a community that truly reflects the love and mercy of Christ.”
Northern Kentucky residents congregated inside the cathedral’s bellowing chamber, participating in hymns and prayers. Bishop Foys, who is 79 years old, shared his thoughts on the legacy of Pope Francis. Foys, who has lived through seven pontificates, said he met Francis on several occasions.
“A complete selfless man,” Foys said.
Foys told personal anecdotes about Francis, including a time when he visited Rome to update the pope on the happenings and service of the local church.
