The world stands still today as the funeral of Pope Francis commences at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, drawing together thousands of mourners, religious leaders, and heads of state from across the globe. This historic event marks the end of an era defined by humility, social justice, and global outreach from one of the most beloved pontiffs in modern history.
A Global Farewell to Pope Francis
Thousands gathered early this morning in Vatican City, many camping overnight, to pay their final respects to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. His funeral, deeply symbolic and steeped in Catholic tradition, is being attended by world leaders, royalty, and dignitaries, alongside everyday citizens and pilgrims from every continent.
Leaders including U.S. President Joe Biden, King Felipe VI of Spain, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva have traveled to Rome to honor the late pontiff. Many religious leaders, including representatives from Orthodox, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities, are also present, reflecting Pope Francis's commitment to interfaith dialogue.
Read more about Pope Francis’s legacy on global interfaith efforts
Ceremony Details: A Funeral Rooted in Simplicity
True to Pope Francis's humble spirit, the funeral ceremony avoids much of the grandeur associated with papal events. The Mass is led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, and features a more simplified liturgy per Pope Francis’s personal wishes.
The casket of the late pope is adorned with simple emblems rather than golden ornamentation, and instead of an elaborate golden crown, a plain silver cross is placed atop his coffin. Thousands chanted prayers in unison as the funeral Mass began at dawn.
Learn more about the Vatican’s traditional funeral rites
World Leaders Pay Tribute
In heartfelt tributes, leaders have praised Pope Francis for his progressive voice in matters such as climate change, immigration, poverty alleviation, and church reforms.
President Biden, a lifelong Catholic, described him as "a man of great moral clarity who challenged all of us to act with compassion and justice." Similarly, President Macron praised Pope Francis's “unwavering advocacy for the marginalized and oppressed.”
Read President Biden’s full statement on Pope Francis
A Legacy That Transcends Borders
Pope Francis's papacy, which began in 2013, has been characterized by a profound emphasis on mercy, openness, and service to the poor. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Southern Hemisphere, and the first to choose the name Francis, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi.
Throughout his tenure, he tackled controversial issues, from modernizing the Church's stance on LGBTQ+ individuals to addressing scandals within the Church with a spirit of transparency and humility.
Explore how Pope Francis reshaped the Catholic Church
The Next Steps for the Catholic Church
While the Church mourns Pope Francis's death, it must now begin the process of moving forward. Vatican officials confirmed that a conclave will be convened within the coming weeks to elect a new pope. Already, speculation abounds about potential successors who might carry forward Francis’s reformist vision.
Find out how the next Pope will be elected
Conclusion
Today’s funeral for Pope Francis not only marks the end of an extraordinary papal reign but also unites the world in shared grief and gratitude. As the bells of St. Peter’s toll and prayers echo through the Vatican, the memory of Pope Francis’s life of compassion, courage, and humility will endure for generations.
Stay tuned as we continue to cover the impact of his passing and the historic transition about to unfold within the Catholic Church.
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