Local Parishoners Pray for Pope Benedict's Successor

We may be thousands of miles from the Vatican, but the impact of the leader of the Catholic church leaving could be felt here in the hearts of many Rochesterians.

"We love Pope Benedict XVI and we're going to miss him. It's a hard time for us Catholics and even non-Catholics. I mean people loved him throughout the world," said Mary Jost, Sacred Heart Parishoner.

"I hope that the new Pope will continue the work of Benedict XVI and maintain the gospel of the Lord. And helping the poor. And maintain the value of Catholics' beliefs," said Tony Tran, Sacred Heart Parishoner.

Parishoners here seem to agree this has been an unsettling time for Catholics. They watch as the Church ushers in change in style and substance.

"Personally I'd like to see everything go back to the conservative traditions. I think things have gotten out of hand in our society. I think our morality has deteriorated. "

Meanwhile at Sienna Academy in Brighton, young Catholics witnessed a history lesson in the making. 

"I think it's a unique experience that like basically our whole world gets to see. Because not everyday the Pope resigns. And it's been a long time since it's happened. And so as Catholics, we're privileged to see this happening," said Grace Fjermedal, Sienna Academy Student.

"I think it gives us more inspiration to learn about Catholic faith now that it's become more of a bigger thing in our lives as we grow up. And things just happen this way and we just have to accept them and move on," said Michael Facci, Sienna Academy Student.

Parishoners here pray for strength in a new leader of their faith.

"New successor, for those truths to be taken care of. That he will not compromise. And he will be strong in his faith. In faith and morals. That he will be doing the right job in the world," said Jost.