Local priests say they will remember Pope John Paul II as a charismatic leader who steered the Catholic church through times of tremendous world change.

"I think his legacy can be measured in his global vision," said the Rev. Rudy Bullman of Risen Christ Parish in Evergreen. "He'll be remembered for his outreach to people throughout the world, regardless of politics or religion."

John Paul connected with people of all ages, and had a special gift for reaching out to young people, Bullman said.

"He embodied what we'd all like to be," he continued. "He was able to look at the ugliness and the beauty of the world and see everything through the eyes of Christ. He did that in the best and worst of times."

At St. Matthew's Parish in Kalispell, many parishioners quietly knelt in prayer in the hour leading up to the weekly Saturday afternoon Mass. Others lined up to go to confession.

The Rev. Vic Langhans also reflected on the loss of a great moral leader.

"When all is said and done, I believe his legacy is to have steered the church through tremendous changes in society and world politics. There's been tremendous change even in our own culture."

Langhans said John Paul was always consistent in his teaching and always faithful to the Gospel.

"He was a rock," Langhans added. "He was able to speak the truth under sometimes difficult circumstances."

The pope was able to address controversy truthfully and sincerely without becoming embroiled in issues, Langhans said, and people worldwide respected him for that.

St. Matthew's Parish will celebrate a Mass of the Dead at 12:10 p.m. Monday to honor the pope.

Risen Christ has scheduled Mass of the Dead for 8:45 a.m. Tuesday and 12:10 p.m. Wednesday.

Flathead County Catholic parishes now join the rest of the world in looking beyond the pope's death to the selection of his successor.

"We trust the Holy Spirit will lead the conclave to choose the man who will do the best job," Bullman said.

Features editor Lynnette Hintze may be reached at 758-4421 or by e-mail at lhintze@dailyinterlake.com