In Fort Worth and throughout North Texas, members of the Catholic faith are continuing to pray on Wednesday for the late Pope Francis , who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.
Now, in this period of transition, the task of temporarily leading the entire Roman Catholic Church falls on the shoulders of Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who was once the bishop of the Diocese of Dallas.
"As stated by Sister Gloria Cain, the former superintendent of the Diocese of Dallas Catholic Schools, 'The residents of North Texas held great affection for Bishop Farrell,'" she explained.
Cain informed CBS News Texas that Cardinal Farrell is more than just a spiritual guide; she is also her confidante. Cain has collaborated closely with Farrell for many years since being chosen as the superintendent of Dallas Catholic Schools in 2008.
"He desired a cooperative partnership, which is precisely what he achieved. He wished for individuals to utilize their skills and abilities along with fostering their creativity," Cain stated.
Right from the start, Cain noticed that Farrell was steering the diocese using a distinct method.
"She mentioned, ‘We had 40 Catholic schools back then, and he told me, “I’d like to accompany you on visits to these schools.” Therefore, we used to go together to tour the institutions. It was incredibly fascinating,’" she recalled.
Cain mentioned that Farrell’s priority as bishop was assisting impoverished areas of Dallas in obtaining improved educational opportunities, which led to his involvement in founding Cristo Rey Preparatory School in Pleasant Grove. This year celebrates the school's tenth anniversary.
Cain stated, "He understood that education serves as the pathway to a fulfilling and constructive existence."
Following his tenure as the bishop of Dallas for almost ten years, Pope Francis summoned Farrell to Rome to head a new Vatican department and serve as one of the pontiff’s key advisers. “It was difficult when he departed,” Cain remembered, “but he was acting according to what he believed was correct and what had been asked of him.”
Based on information from Vatican sources, Cardinal Farrell isn’t seen as a leading contender to become the next pope; however, Cain is hoping for this chance.
"I'm not sure if he would be the appropriate individual to become pope. Only God can determine that," she remarked additionally.
Currently, Cardinal Farrell's formal position is Camerlengo of the Roman Catholic Church. As such, he will be responsible for managing Pope Francis' funeral proceedings and preparing for the conclave. This assembly will commence within the upcoming weeks with the aim of selecting the successor to the papal throne.