Roman Catholics in Clarkston have joined their fellow members around the world in mourning the April 2 death of Pope John Paul II.
In addition to special prayers at regular Sunday Masses, the church scheduled a special memorial Mass on Tuesday, April 5.
Fr. Christopher Maus echoed the sentiments of many who have reflected on the late pontiff’s 26 years as head of the Roman church.
‘We kind of look at him as a people’s Pope,? Maus said on Monday. ‘He was a very intelligent man, but I think the thing that touched people’s hearts the most was the way he related to people, Catholic and non-Catholic alike.
‘He took them where they were, and it didn’t matter what walk of life they were from. He was always there with compassion and a word of kindness.?
Locals this week will also look to the future as they prepare for the pope’s funeral on Friday.
‘We continue our prayers for him and the cardinals who will choose his successor,? Maus said.