LI Jesuit fathers reflect on death of Pope Francis, the first Jesuit pope
Fathers at St. Anthony's Church in Oceanside say the actions of Pope Francis are a direct reflection of his Jesuit roots.
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Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Latin American and Jesuit pope.
St. Anthony’s Church in Oceanside is the only Jesuit church on Long Island.
Rev. James Donovan, S.J. says the passing of the pontiff is like losing someone close to them.
"For us as Jesuits, it's almost like having a death in the family,” he said. "We're going to miss him. He's going to be a tough act to follow."
St. Anthony's Church Associate Pastor Rev. Bret Stockdale, S.J. says the pope’s acts of discernment and openness during his time as pontiff are a direct reflection of his Jesuit roots.
"Sense of discernment, of being able to enter into dialogue with people of all sorts,” he said.
St. Anthony's Church Senior Priest Father Vincent Sullivan, S.J. agrees.
"Finding God in the world, finding God in people, in all things. And I think he brought that Jesuit spirituality,” he said.
They also said Pope Francis will always be remembered for his efforts to create a more inclusive church.
"The poor, the migrants, the LGBTQ community, the women in the church, to do his best to basically bring them in,” said Rev. Donovan.
They also say he’ll be remembered for his message of hope.
"I think that's what really will be his legacy,” said Rev. Stockdale. “That message of hope, and that's what the gospel is all about. And ultimately, I think that's what his pontificate is all about."
Rev. Donovan says masses to remember the pontiff at St. Anthony’s will most likely take place in two weeks.
