image:cnn
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the world gathered in solemn unity at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City to bid farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 due to a stroke and heart failure. The funeral Mass, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, drew approximately 200,000 mourners, including over 130 foreign delegations, royalty, and global dignitaries .Al Jazeera+9The Guardian+9People.com+9
A Humble Farewell Reflecting a Life of Service
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, was the first Latin American pope and led the Catholic Church for 12 years. Known for his emphasis on humility, compassion, and social justice, he requested a simplified funeral that broke with longstanding papal traditions. His coffin, a simple wooden casket bearing only a crucifix and his coat of arms, was applauded by attendees as it was carried into St. Peter’s Square .Latest news & breaking headlines+1Financial Times+1Financial TimesAP News
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis chose to be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, his favored church in Rome, marking the first papal burial outside Vatican walls in over a century .Vatican News+4Financial Times+4Latest news & breaking headlines+4
Cardinal Re’s Homily: Embracing the Path of Self-Giving
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, delivered a poignant homily highlighting Pope Francis’s dedication to a life of self-giving. He emphasized that the late pontiff followed the example of Christ by making his death a voluntary act of love and service. “Seen in this perspective,” the Cardinal noted, “death is the moment to give all, to surrender all with Jesus and in union with His sacrifice” .Latest news & breaking headlines+7Divine Office+7People.com+7Catholic Preaching
The homily underscored Pope Francis’s commitment to the marginalized, his efforts to simplify papal traditions, and his focus on compassion and humility throughout his papacy.The Guardian+1Financial Times+1
Liturgy of the Word: Embracing Inclusivity
The funeral Mass featured readings that reflected Pope Francis’s inclusive vision for the Church. The first reading, from the Acts of the Apostles, emphasized that “God shows no partiality,” highlighting the universality of God’s message .Latest news & breaking headlinesSky News
The Gospel reading, from John 21, recounted Jesus asking Simon Peter, “Do you love me?” three times, entrusting him with the care of his followers. This passage resonated deeply, symbolizing Pope Francis’s role as a shepherd to all, regardless of background or status .Catholic News Agency
In a symbolic gesture, the deacon carried the Book of the Gospel during the procession, and the choir chanted the Litany of the Saints in Latin, invoking prayers for the repose of Pope Francis’s soul .Vatican News+1ABC News+1
A Meeting of Global Leaders: Unity Amidst Diversity
The funeral served as a rare convergence of global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and members of European royalty .AP News
Notably, President Trump and President Zelenskyy held a brief meeting in Rome prior to the funeral, marking their first encounter since a contentious meeting in the White House. The discussion was described as “very productive,” with both leaders agreeing to hold further talks after the service .POLITICOThe Kyiv Independent+1POLITICO+1
The presence of such diverse leaders underscored Pope Francis’s ability to bridge divides and foster dialogue across political and cultural spectrums.
A Legacy of Compassion and Reform
Pope Francis’s funeral was not only a farewell but also a celebration of a transformative papacy. His emphasis on humility, care for the marginalized, and efforts to modernize the Church resonated with many. By choosing a simple burial and involving prisoners, migrants, and the homeless in the funeral rites, he reinforced his commitment to inclusivity and social justice .Catholic News AgencyThe Guardian
As the Church enters a nine-day mourning period known as the Novendiali, the College of Cardinals will prepare for the conclave to elect Pope Francis’s successor. The late pontiff’s legacy will undoubtedly influence the direction of the Church for years to come.Fox News+1Financial Times+1
