CINCINNATI — Ohio’s only archdiocese reacted on Monday after the death of the pope. 

What You Need To Know

  • There was a special memorial set up during mass at the cathedral in downtown Cincinnati 

  • Dozens of parishioners came to pay their respects and condolences 
  • The new Archbishop of Cincinnati is expected to hold a special mass to honor the now late pope next week

There were no signs of mourning outside of the cathedral in Cincinnati, but people walked into the church very somber for mass and a memorial.

Prayers and condolences filled the cathedral as Catholics learned of the pope’s passing.

“I was kind of surprised because I thought he was getting a little better,” said parishioner Sheila Jones. 

“I think we all know he had some up and down health lately, so rest in peace, Papa Francis,” said parishioner Jeremy Depaoli. 

Some saying Pope Francis’ last moments are what moved them most.

“It was just so to me very moving and very special. He got out of bed and he blessed hundreds of people,” said parishioner Tom Harter. 

Even before that, Pope Francis made another move that set Cincinnati’s Archdiocese up for years to come. He appointed Archbishop Robert Casey to be the new archbishop.

“I think one of my primary goals is building healthy relationships, especially in a time when we find ourselves more pulled into polarization,” said Casey earlier this month. 

Casey’s tone on Monday though was a little different. As he was addressing the pope’s death, he expressed his sorrow and urged Catholics to hold on to hope moving forward.

Some mourners said they’re hoping a new leader will bring more people together on the issues.

“He left a lot of things unanswered to that the next pope is going to have to address…it’s not a perfect world,” said Harter. 

In the coming days, there’s also expected to be a special mass in Cincinnati for the pope.