Apr 21, 2008 6:55 pm US/Eastern
Pope's Absence Felt, But His U.S. Message Endures
Faithful Weigh In On The Significance Of His Visit
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
During his six day visit to America, Pope Benedict XVI left behind the impression that he's a compassionate and candid leader.
Catholic scholars affirm that Benedict's papal pilgrimage was an enormous success, probably beyond anyone's expectations including those of the pope himself.
At Yankee Stadium, at St. Joseph's Seminary and St. Patrick's Cathedral, the pontiff sounded the same themes of truth triumphing over evil, of wealthier nations taking care of poorer ones, and the individual Catholic's responsibility to live a life of love, out in public, proudly proclaiming one's faith.
Above all, the Pope urged his audiences to find hope in Jesus Christ. "You men and women of America, I urge you to open your hearts to the Lord's call," he said.
A jubilant crowd of 57,000 at Yankee Stadium, waving handkerchiefs in the Vatican's colors of white and yellow, got the message.
"It's awesome, one of those experiences you will never forget," one onlooker said.
"It was an exhilarating experience. You could just feel the love and the warmth. It was the greatest place to be today," another said.
On the steps of St. Patrick's Cathedral Monday morning, victims of the clergy sex abuse scandal handed out pamphlets saying they hope the pontiff's kind, sympathetic words mean that pedophile priests will never tolerate such behavior again in the future:
"I want to feel hopeful. He seems like a very nice guy the pope, friendly, a good guy," said Philip Iseley.
Others attending Mass this morning also wondered about the future leader of the New York Archdiocese, since Cardinal Egan, seen by the Holy Father's side throughout his three day visit, was required to submit his resignation when he turned 75-years-old last year.
Cardinal Egan's spokesman, Joe Zwilling, said he wants to do whatever the Holy Father wants him to do. That means for now basking in the reflected glory of Pope Benedict's successful sojourn to the states, where many Catholics say they've learned exactly who their leader is.
"I think he's much more human than we thought and I like the way he reached out to all kinds of people who are struggling and hurt and looking for hope," said Phillip Kruse.
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