Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Shay Stevens.
Cardinals are meeting at the Vatican to prepare for the funeral of Pope Francis and to discuss church operations.
Catholic churches around the world are in mourning, following Francis' death on Monday.
Noelle Annenand of Member Station, WBHM, spoke with mourners in Birmingham.
Parishioners ascended the steps of the Cathedral of St. Paul,
attending the first mass since Pope Francis' death was announced.
I was very sad.
I think he was an excellent pope.
I think he did a lot of good for... for the church and for the world.
That is Mark Sanzik on his way into the church.
His fellow parishioner Nancy Heck says
as she watched coverage of the Pope at the Vatican on Easter Sunday,
she said he seemed to be suffering and says she's glad that he isn't any longer.
I'm sad for our church.
I'm happy for him.
A spokesperson for the Diocese of Birmingham says the church will pray for the soul of Pope Francis and the concave of cardinals
as they choose a new Pope.
For NPR News, I'm Noelle Annenin in Birmingham.
White House officials say there is no truth to reports
that President Trump is looking to replace Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.