Waltham residents reflect on Pope Francis

People of all backgrounds and beliefs in Waltham and throughout the world are mourning the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88 in Rome on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025.  

“He was a world leader and a kind human being who cared about people first,” said Waltham resident Judy Holmberg.   

Catholic churches in Waltham and throughout the Archdiocese of Boston rang their church bells 88 times at 3:00 p.m. on the day of his death in remembrance of the pope. 

The Reverend James DiPerri, pastor of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted Parish, reflected that “while his death was anticipated because of his illness, it was unexpected because he continued his ministry until the day before he died, putting the needs of others before his own.”

The Reverend Michael Nolan, pastor of St. Mary’s Parish, has fond memories of meeting Pope Francis on two occasions.  He shared that Catholics “mourn with gratitude and without fear because our sadness is all in the context of hope and joy in Christ’s resurrection.”

Daniel Connelly, a high school student and parishioner at Our Lady’s, said “the timing of his death was remarkable, as if God let him celebrate the resurrection one more time before calling him home.” He described Pope Francis as very compassionate and always reaching out to the marginalized.  His hope is that the new pope will continue to “hold to the truth of Church teachings even when the world tries to move in the opposite direction.”

Our Lady’s parishioner Ron Bousquet said he loved and respected Pope Francis as a “man who really lived his faith and did things Christ would want us to do.”  Like many others who observed the pope’s struggles following his recent illness, Bousquet is “glad he is at peace in his final resting place with Christ.”

Lourdes Alvarez, another parishioner at Our Lady’s, said she related closely to Pope Francis because he spoke Spanish, her first language.  She appreciated his humility and simplicity, his care for the poor and respect for all life, and “he was full of joy and fun!”

Chandra Minor, principal of Our Lady’s Academy, especially appreciated his regard for children and immigrants because many students at Our Lady’s and other Catholic schools are from immigrant families.

“As a Catholic and a woman of great faith, the passing of Pope Francisco struck me deeply, bringing me to tears,” said Genoveva Tavera. “Yet his passing at Easter Time,  when we celebrate with joy the resurrection of Christ, helps to ease the sorrow and transform it into the hope and joy that my faith gives me.”

Many Catholic parishes are planning special remembrances over this coming weekend. Check parish websites or offices for details.