Pope Francis’ funeral in St. Peter’s Square witnessed a massive turnout of mourners, including global leaders and everyday citizens, reflecting his impact on the Catholic Church and the world. His burial will follow a more modest ceremony, with security heightened for the occasion.
World Leaders and Faithful Mourn Pope Francis at His Solemn Funeral
World Leaders and Faithful Mourn Pope Francis at His Solemn Funeral
Tens of thousands gather in Vatican City to pay tribute to the late pontiff, who championed inclusivity and humanitarianism during his papacy.
In a poignant farewell, Pope Francis was mourned on Saturday at an open-air funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, drawing tens of thousands of attendees from across the globe. The late pontiff, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 88, was remembered for his efforts toward creating a more inclusive Roman Catholic Church, exhibiting affection for those marginalized and advocating for humanitarian causes throughout his 12-year papacy.
The Vatican had anticipated a high attendance, with over 150 foreign delegations confirmed, including notable figures such as President Trump, former President Joe Biden, and President Javier Milei of Argentina, Francis’ homeland. The personal touches Francis implemented for his funeral, including a simpler ceremony compared to those of his predecessors, echoed his commitment to humility, yet remained imbued with traditional Catholic pageantry.
Amid the gathering of world leaders, complexities arose over seating arrangements due to historical geopolitical tensions. Leaders from nations with strained relations, such as Ukraine and Russia, were expected to occupy adjacent seats organized by alphabetical order in French, a logistical solution offered by Vatican protocol to maintain neutrality.
As the ceremony progressed, security measures were unprecedented, with thousands of police officers deployed across Rome amid heightened anxieties surrounding the large gathering. Access to St. Peter’s Square was tightly regulated, with attendees undergoing thorough checks at various entry points.
After the Mass, Pope Francis’ wooden coffin will be transported to the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a location cherished by the late pope. There, he will be laid to rest in a private ceremony, marking the end of his earthly journey with a simple tomb inscription: “Franciscus.”
The world now turns its attention to the process of selecting the next pope, as the College of Cardinals prepares for the pivotal election following Francis’ burial. This solemn occasion serves as a reflection not only on the pontiff's legacy of promoting peace and inclusivity but also on the challenges and divisions that persist globally, underscoring the need for unity among nations and faith communities.
