Pope Francis remembered in Edmonton Easter Monday mass following death

Catholics and Indigenous people in Canada are remembering the historic visit Pope Francis made to Edmonton in 2022. CTV News Edmonton's Evan Kenny reports.

The passing of Pope Francis meant a different Easter Monday mass at St. Joseph’s Basilica in Edmonton.

Archbishop Richard Smith says the bigger turnout, and the outpouring of tributes and condolences across Canada and worldwide, show Francis made a major impact in a short period of time, especially in Alberta.

• Pope Francis, the pontiff who delivered an historic apology to Canada’s Indigenous, dies at 88

Smith helped organize the 2022 Papal visit to Maskwacis, south of Edmonton, where the Pope apologized for the church’s role in the residential school system.

Smith says it was an experience that touched him deeply, and the Pope’s ability and determination to listen to people’s stories of suffering was something he’ll never forget.

Pope Francis Pope Francis prays in front of Indigenous chiefs at the Ermineskin Cree Nation Cemetery in Maskwacis, Alta., during his papal visit across Canada on Monday, July 25, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette

He also says he thinks the Pope’s first stop in Canada being Maskwacis showed his commitment to working with Indigenous people and reconciliation.

Smith says he plans to meet with Indigenous leaders in Maskwacis again this week to strengthen relations and continue the work that took place during the Pope’s visit.

He says the Archdiocese of Edmonton will likely have a dedicated celebration of the Pope’s life in the days or weeks to come.