Pope Francis was laid to rest in Rome, drawing crowds from around the world for a poignant farewell. Dignitaries, pilgrims, and clergy honored the late pontiff's 12-year legacy, emphasizing his commitment to peace and compassion in a time of division.
World Mourns Pope Francis: A Legacy of Peace and Compassion
World Mourns Pope Francis: A Legacy of Peace and Compassion
Hundreds of thousands gather in Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis, highlighting his pivotal call to "build bridges, not walls."
Pope Francis has been buried in Rome after a powerful funeral ceremony and procession that saw hundreds of thousands of people pay their respects, alongside numerous heads of state. The first South American pope, who passed away at the age of 88 on Monday, left a lasting impact on millions during his 12-year pontificate.
As Rome awoke to a hazy morning, a diverse crowd of teenage pilgrims, nuns, and priests quietly made their way to the Vatican. With streets around St Peter's Basilica closed for security, thousands of visitors gathered, with over 8,000 Italian police and other emergency personnel on hand. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as attendees prepared for the funeral mass.
Early arrivals included Jessica from Mexico and Cyril from the US, who expressed their enthusiasm and sacrificial commitment to securing a front-row spot for the occasion: "We never thought we'd be this close. We sacrificed a little sleep to be here but it's worth it," Jessica remarked.
International figures took their places at the altar, capturing the attention of photographers eager for snapshots of significant conversations, notably between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two leaders allegedly met before the service, a dynamic that would soon be the center of conversation as they sat together during the proceedings.
The vibrant scene at St Peter's Square featured a kaleidoscope of colors from attendees, while the solemnity of the funeral mass resonated through the words of 91-year-old Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. Cardinal Re highlighted the late Pope's insistence on building bridges instead of walls, capturing the essence of his teachings on migration and peace. The cardinal's remarks reverberated particularly among the gathered global leaders, prompting reflection on their roles in a world rife with conflict.
The gathered crowd of 200,000 erupted in applause at poignant moments, especially as Pope Francis' wooden coffin was brought out. Cardinal Re's reflections on war's devastating impacts further drew attention, posing a challenge to world leaders present.
After communion, the ceremony drew to a close with the Pope being blessed and his coffin borne through the streets in a slow procession, greeted by adoring crowds. As the hearse traversed the city, 140,000 lined the streets to pay final respects, celebrating the legacies of the pontiff.
Past notable landmarks, the Pope's coffin was finally laid to rest at Santa Maria Maggiore, located near a revered Virgin Mary icon. Post-ceremony, many attendees returned to local cafes and eateries to share reflections on the day's special experience.
The head of Civil Protection, Fabio Ciciliano, reported a successful and peaceful event, underscoring the significant impact the day held for the attendees. With the world watching, attention now shifts towards the upcoming conclave, which will select the next pope, a historical event anticipated with both hope and uncertainty.
As the world contemplates who will lead the Catholic Church next, discussions flourished on whether the next pope might emerge from Asian origins—a reflection of the church's ever-evolving community. "Only He knows," remarked Cardinal Mafi when queried, encapsulating the mystery surrounding the future of the papacy.
