NEW HAVEN, CT — Catholics across Connecticut are mourning the passing of Pope Francis and reflecting on the legacy he leaves behind — one marked by humility, advocacy for the poor, and a steadfast push for inclusivity within the Church.
“He was such an amazing man,” said Sydney Crockett, a sophomore at Southern Connecticut State University. Her words echoed the sentiments shared by many younger Catholics, who viewed the late pontiff as a transformative spiritual leader.
At St. Joseph Church in New Haven, parishioners gathered in prayer and remembrance. “He attracted a larger audience. Especially the poor, the immigrants, and people from Latin America,” said Dennis Ortiz of New Haven. His words captured the global and local impact of a pope who often walked alongside the world’s forgotten.
Martin Wauth of East Haven reflected on the pope’s mission to serve beyond material need. “Whether we’re materially poor or poor in spirit, we need to have someone tend to that and being the real presence of Jesus to that need,” Wauth said.
Among the tributes, Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical Laudato Si was highlighted for its influence in shaping the Catholic Church’s position on environmental stewardship. Marc Camille, president of Albertus Magnus College, commended the pope’s ecological message. “To support a greener Earth, a healthier Earth. It’s not just about us, but it’s about those who will follow us,” Camille said.
Crockett also pointed to the late pontiff’s outreach to the LGBTQ community and efforts to elevate the role of women in Church leadership. “Just go forward with inclusivity and getting more young adults to embrace the Catholic Church, because I think he did an amazing job,” she said.
As Catholics await the selection of a new pope, many are turning to faith. “We’ll leave that in the hands of God,” said Sister Serasina Viagrande, a visitor from New York.
For many in Connecticut, Pope Francis’ papacy will be remembered not just for his titles or travels, but for his moral clarity and unwavering compassion for the most vulnerable.
