More than 1,000 people gathered at the funeral for a well-known Bridgeport religious figure Saturday at the Arena at Harbor Yard.

Lady Peggy Ann Moales, 71, passed away on May 29, leaving behind a national reputation as a respected religious leader.

She and her late husband, Bishop Kenneth Moales, founded the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, which quickly gained a reputation of excellence under their leadership.

Pastor Kenneth Moales Jr., who took over the church when his father passed away, said his mom taught him humility.

“My mother was an international individual as it relates to female empowerment, as it relates to ministry, as it relates to business," he said. “I'd like to say thanks to my mother for continuing the dream and legacy of my father Bishop Kenneth Moales. They started in a living room, but they died in the cathedral.”

Sen. Richard Blumenthal said she may have traveled the world helping people in need, but her main passion remained her own parish.

"She will be remembered as a pillar of the community, but also a wonderful human being of warmth, grace and dignity," said Sen. Blumenthal.

Former President Barack Obama called Moales "a great lady of the church whose legacy will never be forgotten."