As mourners congregate in Vatican City for Pope Francis' funeral, fallout from his passing reveals the profound impact he had on both the Church and global politics.
Mourners Unite for Pope Francis' Funeral in Vatican City
Mourners Unite for Pope Francis' Funeral in Vatican City
Thousands gather in St. Peter's Square to pay tribute to Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and Latin American pope known for his inclusivity.
April 26, 2025, 2:45 a.m. ET - As the sun rose on Vatican City, thousands of mourners filled St. Peter's Square to bid farewell to Pope Francis during his funeral Mass. The attendance of tens of thousands of leaders, dignitaries, and everyday faithful marked a poignant moment of remembrance for the pontiff, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
In line with his humble approach to leadership, Francis had previously instituted guidelines for a simplified funeral, opting for modesty over pompous ceremony. Nonetheless, the funeral remained steeped in traditional Catholic pageantry, with Latin hymns and prominent world leaders expected to pay their respects. Over 150 delegations are anticipated, ranging from President Trump and former President Joe Biden to the Argentine President Javier Milei, reflecting the international resonance of Francis' message of inclusion and compassion.
The funeral Mass is set to commence at 10 a.m. local time (4 a.m. Eastern). The service will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person, with CNN, NBC, and the BBC among the networks broadcasting the event.
Francis had previously articulated his desire for a less elaborate funeral, aiming to reflect his identity as “a humble pastor.” Following the Mass, his wooden coffin will be transported to the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a location he cherished, where he will be interred privately.
To ensure the safety of the attendees, authorities have implemented extensive security measures across Rome, including road closures and deployment of thousands of security personnel. The anticipation of large crowds has led to the establishment of several large screens around the square for those unable to secure a prime spot, allowing for shared mourning.
As the funeral unfolds, preparations are underway for the process of selecting Francis' successor through the College of Cardinals. The ceremony will serve as a backdrop to the complex geopolitics of today – the array of attendees include leaders whose relationships with the Vatican have been contentious.
A reflection of his global influence, the funeral stands as a testament to Francis' legacy: a church leader who endeavored to lift the marginalized and address pressing global issues such as migration and climate change. His absence will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. With a simple inscription of "Franciscus," his tomb will reflect the legacy of a pope who prioritized humility, kindness, and transformative change throughout his papacy.
In line with his humble approach to leadership, Francis had previously instituted guidelines for a simplified funeral, opting for modesty over pompous ceremony. Nonetheless, the funeral remained steeped in traditional Catholic pageantry, with Latin hymns and prominent world leaders expected to pay their respects. Over 150 delegations are anticipated, ranging from President Trump and former President Joe Biden to the Argentine President Javier Milei, reflecting the international resonance of Francis' message of inclusion and compassion.
The funeral Mass is set to commence at 10 a.m. local time (4 a.m. Eastern). The service will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person, with CNN, NBC, and the BBC among the networks broadcasting the event.
Francis had previously articulated his desire for a less elaborate funeral, aiming to reflect his identity as “a humble pastor.” Following the Mass, his wooden coffin will be transported to the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a location he cherished, where he will be interred privately.
To ensure the safety of the attendees, authorities have implemented extensive security measures across Rome, including road closures and deployment of thousands of security personnel. The anticipation of large crowds has led to the establishment of several large screens around the square for those unable to secure a prime spot, allowing for shared mourning.
As the funeral unfolds, preparations are underway for the process of selecting Francis' successor through the College of Cardinals. The ceremony will serve as a backdrop to the complex geopolitics of today – the array of attendees include leaders whose relationships with the Vatican have been contentious.
A reflection of his global influence, the funeral stands as a testament to Francis' legacy: a church leader who endeavored to lift the marginalized and address pressing global issues such as migration and climate change. His absence will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. With a simple inscription of "Franciscus," his tomb will reflect the legacy of a pope who prioritized humility, kindness, and transformative change throughout his papacy.
