Lincoln Catholics gather to pay homage to Pope Francis at Memorial Mass

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Lincoln Catholics gathered Wednesday at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ for regularly scheduled Mass, but it was also a memorial honoring the late Pope Francis.

“It’s just the right thing to do,” said Marie Antanela. “He was our Holy Father. He’s now with the Lord.”

The cathedral offered communion to the faithful, who joined in singing and prayer.

SEE ALSO: ‘You do feel a loss’: Lincoln Catholics mourning Pope Francis

Bishop James Conley also shared stories of the pontiff, referencing the time he served at the Vatican.

The Rev. Monsignor Thomas Fucinaro worked alongside Conley in Rome for 25 years.

He said the pope’s impact will be felt through generations.

Fucinaro said Franics will be remembered as “very Jesuit, a proud son of St, Ignacius of Loyola.”

SEE ALSO: Lincoln bishop chimes in on Catholic Church’s future post-Pope Francis

Local Catholics believed it was important for them to come together in memory of Francis, even though they’re a half a world away from Rome.

“We may be from different parishes, and we may not be able to go to Rome, but he was still our holy father and our spiritual director,” Karen Taubanheim said.

Pope Francis’ funeral takes place at 2:30 a.m. Saturday. Channel 8 will be carrying the entire service live.

SEE ALSO: ‘Champion of the poor’: Lincoln nonprofit says Pope Francis’ legacy lives on in its work