Cardinal Dolan Reflects on Pope Francis' Passing and Legacy

Expressing Grief and Hope

• 😔 Cardinal Dolan publicly shared the sadness felt by the Catholic community following the passing of Pope Francis.
• 🙏 He also emphasized the hope of the resurrection, particularly on Easter Monday, drawing parallels to St. Peter's writings on new birth and imperishable inheritance.
• 🕊️ The day after Easter, known as the "Monday of the Angels," is a reminder of the angels announcing Jesus' resurrection, reinforcing the belief that Pope Francis, though passed, still lives.

The "Empty Chair" of Peter

• 🪑 Cardinal Dolan described the current moment as having an "empty chair" in reference to the Chair of Saint Peter, symbolizing the vacancy in the papacy.
• ✝️ He shared personal mementos, including a chalice given to him by Pope Francis during a visit to Madison Square Garden, as vivid reminders of their interactions.
• ⏳ The timing of Pope Francis' passing on Easter Sunday is seen as providential, allowing him to share in the victory of the resurrection, a moment Dolan felt could not have been better choreographed.

Pope Francis as a Teacher and Steward

• 🌟 Pope Francis is remembered as a great teacher, a role inherent to the papacy, who taught through his life and his death.
• 🎁 He is described as a wonderful steward of God's gifts, characterized by simplicity, humility, and an easygoing nature, contrasting with the towering intellects of his predecessors.
• 💡 His final months, during which he could barely speak or move, served as a powerful lesson that "who we are" as children of God is more important than "what we can do."

Personal Memories and Papal Protocol

• 📞 Cardinal Dolan recalled personal moments, such as Pope Francis calling him during COVID-19 to check on New Yorkers and after the attack on Israel to send love to the Jewish community.
• 🤝 He also remembered Pope Francis offering to write a note to his dying brother-in-law, highlighting his personal compassion and connection.
• ✈️ Dolan was scheduled to depart for Rome the day after the announcement for a pilgrimage, a trip he felt was providential and opportune.
• 🗓️ While the protocol for mourning, funeral, and the subsequent conclave is established, specific details were still pending.

Recollections of Pope Francis' Visit to New York

• 🏙️ Pope Francis was overwhelmed by the size of New York City during his visit, marveling at the buildings and the enthusiastic reception he received.
• 🤔 He expressed surprise at the warm embrace from the city, questioning his prior perception that Americans might not like religion.
• ❤️ The visit left a lasting impression of the city's warmth and acceptance.