Tulsa Catholics mourn Pope Francis

Hundreds of Tulsans joined Catholics worldwide in mourning the death of Pope Francis on Monday. At Holy Family Cathedral in downtown Tulsa, the usual noon Monday mass was marked by prayers for the late pontiff, and a homily that focused on Francis' focus on working until the end of his life.

Rector Emeritus Monsignor Gregory Gier spoke during the noon service, saying, "What we believe and hope was the experience of Pope Francis yesterday, that his Lord came back to him and said, 'Francis, I am back, I have gone and prepared a place for you."

A large portrait of Francis was placed on one side of the altar.

Parishioner Emmanuel NGaba said, "We pray for him, and it's with mixed feelings of sadness because we'll miss him, but we hope he's with the Lord and we'll see him again."

In a statement early Monday, Bishop David Konderla said, "As a Jesuit priest, then Bishop, then Cardinal, and finally as our Holy Father these past 12 years, Pope Francis dedicated his life to inviting all to see and know Jesus Christ."

Parishioner Madison Ohman spoke of the significance of Francis marking his final day of service on Easter. "It's really a beautiful and fitting time to celebrate the life of his leadership. I've had a lot of gratitude for him."