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World Leaders, Faithful Mourn Pope Francis at Historic Funeral
Pope Francis' funeral draws leaders and faithful from across the globe, honoring his legacy of compassion for migrants, peace, and the environment.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-26
World Leaders, Faithful Mourn Pope Francis at Historic Funeral

In a moving farewell to Pope Francis, world leaders, royals, and tens of thousands of mourners gathered in St. Peter's Square and throughout Rome to honor the pontiff who reshaped the Roman Catholic Church with his message of compassion, peace, and social justice. Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 following a stroke, was celebrated for his deep care for migrants, the poor, and the environment during his 12-year papacy.

The funeral Mass was led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who spoke of Pope Francis’ dedication to humanity’s struggles. "Rich in human warmth and deeply sensitive to today’s challenges, Pope Francis truly shared the anxieties, sufferings, and hopes of this time," Re said, drawing applause from the crowd that filled the square.

Pope Francis’ death on Monday marked the end of an era. The Argentine pope was known for his humble approach to leadership and his advocacy for the marginalized. During his papacy, he became an advocate for peace, the protection of migrants, and combating climate change—issues that earned both admiration and criticism, including a well-known clash with US President Donald Trump on these matters.

A Final Journey Through Rome

The funeral service was attended by a multitude of global figures, including US President Donald Trump, the Presidents of Ukraine, Argentina, France, Gabon, Germany, the Philippines, and Poland, as well as the Prime Ministers of Britain and New Zealand. Royals, including the King and Queen of Spain, were also present to pay their respects.

The pope’s body was later carried in an open-topped popemobile to St. Mary Major Basilica, where Francis had chosen to be buried, breaking from the tradition of papal burials in the Vatican. Unlike past popes who were laid to rest in multiple caskets, Francis chose a simpler, more humble burial, opting for a single, zinc-lined wooden coffin.

The funeral rites were notably simpler than those of previous popes, with Pope Francis rewriting the long-standing rituals to reflect his desire for simplicity in the Church. His tomb, inscribed with the simple name “Franciscus” in Latin, marks a final break from the elaborate traditions of the papacy.

A Lasting Legacy

Pope Francis leaves behind a powerful legacy of compassion and calls for action on global issues such as migration and climate change. His papacy was marked by efforts to reform the Church and promote transparency, though his push for simplicity and inclusivity was often met with resistance from traditionalists within the Church.

“He left everyone a wonderful testimony of humanity, of a holy life and of universal fatherhood,” read a Latin summary of his papacy, placed beside his body at the funeral.

The funeral ceremony, which drew over 250,000 people, also saw hymns sung in several languages, including Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, and Arabic, reflecting the global reach of the Catholic Church. As the coffin was moved, the crowd erupted into applause, with mourners expressing their gratitude for the pope's leadership.

The Future of the Papacy

As the world bids farewell to Pope Francis, attention now shifts to the future of the papacy. The Vatican is preparing for a conclave to elect a successor, although the process is not expected to begin until at least May 6. Cardinal meetings will take place beforehand to discuss the future direction of the Church, which faces challenges, including financial issues and ideological divisions.

Pope Francis, who redefined the papacy by living humbly and focusing on the poor and marginalized, will be remembered for his tireless efforts to promote peace and social justice across the globe.

 
Tagged:

Migration

ClimateChange

PopeFrancis

CatholicChurch

Funeral

PapalLegacy
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