Overview
- Hundreds filled the cathedral Tuesday morning for a 90-minute liturgy honoring the Xavier University leader, who died Feb. 18 at 94.
- Cardinal Wilton Gregory delivered the homily, praising Francis’s steady perspective and humility throughout a life of high public service.
- Attendees included New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno, U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, District Attorney Jason Williams, judges, civic leaders and artists.
- Marc Morial lauded Francis’s influence on education and public life and urged that Xavier’s planned medical school be named for him, drawing applause.
- The Mass followed Monday’s lying in repose and visitation at Xavier and concluded with burial at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 on Esplanade Avenue.