Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Grand Funeral Ceremony

In an emotional farewell, Pope Francis was interred in a majestic ceremony that reflected his inclusive vision for the Catholic Church and his impact on the global stage.

In a heartfelt and solemn ceremony on the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Catholic Church said its final goodbyes to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. The first pope from South America, Francis was remembered for his simple style and pastoral approach that both strengthened and challenged the Church over his dozen years in leadership. A gathering of heads of state and global religious leaders surrounded a closed cypress coffin draped in the papal colors, as pages from the Gospels danced in the breeze above.

Hundreds of thousands of devotees filled St. Peter’s Square and its surroundings, with around 250,000 having lined up in days prior to pay their respects to the late pope, who lay in red vestments and worn black shoes prior to the service. In his homily, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re emphasized Francis' belief in the Church as a welcoming home for everyone, highlighting his humble and inclusive spirit. This resonance during the Requiem Mass hints at the legacy Francis will leave behind, as the cardinals prepare for an upcoming conclave to elect his successor, while reflecting on the warmth and openness that defined his papacy.