Washington remembers Pope Francis

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - President Donald Trump ordered flags to be lowered to half-mast, following the passing of Pope Francis. He passed away at 88-years old, hours after delivering his last Easter Sunday blessing. Washington correspondent Ashonti Ford spoke with people by the bishop’s seat in the nation’s capitol, St. Matthew’s Cathedral.

Ford: “What do you think he will be most remembered for?”

“His humility. He was the most humble pope.”

“There was a lot of emotion in the audience - people crying, clapping. I thought he would rebound.”

“It’s sad, it’s a shame”

There will be a series of centuries-old rituals performed over several days, to celebrate Pope Francis’ life which many say was dedicated to making the catholic church a place for everyone. Now, some wondering, what direction the Catholic Church will take

Emma Giraldo said, “i would like to see another American, north or south American pope that can lead us into a wider scope and perspective over what’s coming in the future.”

Alejandro Gamboa added, “I think he was a role model for a lot of people. You can take the politics and progressives aside. Or debate if whether the church should advance or not. But underlying, beneath all of that, is that he loved everyone.”

At the White House President Trump said the Pope Francis was a good, hardworking man that loved the world.

Outside St. Mathews cathedral Monseigneur Ronald Jameson said, “the continuation of hope – it’s needed, and i think whoever takes his place.. I would hope that that is continued.”

It’s a sentiment echoed by the new Archbishop of Washington, Robert, Cardinal McElroy.

The conclave to elect a new pope by secret ballot starts in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel 15-20 days from the pope’s death.