Pope Francis was honored in a majestic funeral that reflected his inclusive vision for the Church and his global impact, as citizens and dignitaries gathered to pay their respects.
Pope Francis Laid to Rest in a Grand Final Farewell
Pope Francis Laid to Rest in a Grand Final Farewell
A historic funeral ceremony draws world leaders, marking the legacy of the first South American pope.
On April 26, 2025, the Vatican witnessed a grand farewell as Pope Francis was laid to rest in St. Peter’s Basilica. Hundreds of thousands of mourners filled the square, paying homage to the beloved leader who passed away at the age of 88. The closed cypress coffin, draped in red vestments, rested before an audience of world leaders, including President Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, as well as numerous cardinals and religious heads.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re delivered a stirring homily during the Requiem Mass, emphasizing Francis’ commitment to making the Church a welcoming home for everyone. His simple, humble style and pastoral approach not only distinguished his papacy but also inverted long-held expectations within the institution. While preparations were underway for a conclave to elect his successor, reflections on the late pope's legacy painted a portrait of a man dedicated to inclusivity and community outreach.
In the days leading up to the funeral, an impressive 250,000 followers queued to pay their final respects to Francis, who lay in state with an open book of gospels resting upon his coffin. As the ceremony unfolded, it became evident that this was not just a farewell but a reflection of the profound impact Pope Francis had, bridging gaps and redefining the role of the papacy.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re delivered a stirring homily during the Requiem Mass, emphasizing Francis’ commitment to making the Church a welcoming home for everyone. His simple, humble style and pastoral approach not only distinguished his papacy but also inverted long-held expectations within the institution. While preparations were underway for a conclave to elect his successor, reflections on the late pope's legacy painted a portrait of a man dedicated to inclusivity and community outreach.
In the days leading up to the funeral, an impressive 250,000 followers queued to pay their final respects to Francis, who lay in state with an open book of gospels resting upon his coffin. As the ceremony unfolded, it became evident that this was not just a farewell but a reflection of the profound impact Pope Francis had, bridging gaps and redefining the role of the papacy.
