**World Leaders and Mourners Gather for Pope Francis’ Funeral in Vatican City**

**As global leaders convened to honor him, the world reflected on his impact as a champion of inclusivity and humility in the Church.**

Under a bright, spring sky, St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City was filled with red-robed cardinals, world leaders, and thousands of Roman Catholics united to honor the late Pope Francis during a solemn funeral Mass. Attendees bowed their heads in reverence as the reality of the funeral unfolded into the backdrop of global crises and wars. Among the notable leaders present was President Trump, who, according to the White House, engaged in a significant discussion with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine during the service.

Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88. The pontiff had laid out plans for a simpler funeral than those of his predecessors, reflecting his vision of a humble church leader rather than a figure of grandeur. Despite this shift, the ceremony incorporated majestic traditions, drawing an estimated 250,000 participants.

As the Mass commenced, Francis' body lay in a modest wooden coffin, on display before the mourners while a choir sang psalms, leading prayers in multiple languages as a select audience awaited the service on large screens set up around the square. Dignitaries included Presidents Biden and Milei of Argentina, alongside numerous refugees who were supported by Francis during his 12-year papacy, along with youth representatives.

Notably, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re honored the pope in a heartfelt homily, remarking on Francis’ commitment to serving the less fortunate and advocating for an inclusive church. He spoke of the late pope's dedication to addressing the realities of contemporary struggles, particularly his support for refugees.

After the service concluded, Francis' body would be taken to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a site dear to him, where a simple burial ceremony would be held. Guided by the papal tradition, he chose a one-word inscription, “Franciscus,” for his grave, signifying his simplistic nature.

As global attention turned towards the selection of the next pope, with the College of Cardinals preparing to meet, the emotional atmosphere resonated with gratitude for Francis’ legacy of unity, humility, and hope—a message that will be enduring as the church moves forward.