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Thousands of mourners, including world leaders, presidents, and royalty, bid farewell to Pope Francis at a solemn funeral ceremony in St Peter’s Square, Vatican City.
The late pontiff’s legacy of compassion for migrants, the poor, and the environment took centre stage during the ceremony. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, presiding over the funeral Mass, emphasised the importance of carrying forward Pope Francis’s vision.
Pope Francis’s Final Resting Place
After the funeral, Pope Francis’s coffin was taken in procession to the Basilica of St Mary Major, where he was laid to rest. This marked a departure from tradition, as he became the first pope to be buried outside the Vatican in over a century. The Basilica of St Mary Major held special significance for Pope Francis, who often visited the site.
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
The funeral ceremony reflected Pope Francis’s wishes for a simple and humble farewell. Tens of thousands of people attended the Mass, with representatives from various countries and organisations paying their respects. Prisoners and migrants, groups the Pope had championed during his papacy, welcomed him at the basilica where he was buried
Pope Francis’s funeral was held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in St Peter’s Square, Vatican City, marking the end of his 12-year papacy. The ceremony drew over 250,000 attendees, including world leaders and dignitaries. US President Donald Trump, who had previously clashed with the Pope, sat alongside other foreign leaders and even met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky inside St Peter’s Basilica.
The Funeral Ceremony
Attendance: The funeral mass was attended by more than 250,000 people, including 130 foreign delegations and 200,000 pilgrims.
Dignitaries: Notable attendees included US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Cardinal’s Message: Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presided over the funeral Mass, emphasising Pope Francis’s sensitivity to today’s challenges and his commitment to the Church’s evolution. In his homily, Cardinal Re gave a simple yet powerful message: “There was no going back.”
Pope Francis’s Legacy
Call for Peace: Pope Francis repeatedly called for an end to conflicts during his papacy. His funeral provided an opportunity for world leaders to discuss pressing global issues.
Church’s Future: The cardinals in attendance will gather for a conclave next month to choose Francis’s successor, deciding whether the Church will continue on its current path or adopt a more traditional approach.
Burial at St Mary Major Basilica
Private Burial: After the funeral, Pope Francis’s coffin was taken in procession through Rome to the Basilica of St Mary Major, where he was laid to rest in a private ceremony.
Simple Tomb: The Pope had requested a simple tomb marked with the inscription “Franciscus”.
Historic Burial: This marks the first time a pope has been buried outside the Vatican in over a century.
A Tribute to Pope Francis
Crowds: An estimated 150,000 people lined the 5.5-km route to St Mary Major Basilica, waving signs and throwing flowers towards the casket.
Farewell: The crowd bid farewell to the beloved Pope, shouting “Viva il Papa” and “Ciao, Francesco” as the procession passed by.
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