Pope Francis Laid to Rest: Highlights from the Funeral
Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on April 21, and his funeral took place at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The subsequent burial was at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, attended by over 250,000 mourners, including global leaders and many young people, reflecting on his significant legacy as the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church.
Farewell Ceremony at St. Peter’s Square
The funeral service drew a large crowd and highlighted Pope Francis’s efforts in connecting with the community. The homily was delivered by Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, who commemorated the pope’s compassionate approach, stating he was, “a Pope among the people, with an open heart towards everyone.”
Young People in Attendance
A notable aspect of the ceremony was the involvement of youth, with around 80,000 teenagers in attendance for the Jubilee of Teenagers. This gathering underscores the pope’s enduring impact on younger generations, who felt a strong connection to his outreach during his papacy.
Noteworthy Moments from the Funeral
- Coffin Procession: As the pope’s coffin was carried out of the basilica, the crowd broke into applause, a poignant tribute to his life and service.
- Readings from Scripture: Kielce Gussie, a 28-year-old American journalist, delivered the first reading in English, bringing a youthful presence to the service.
- Global Leaders: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was present, receiving applause from attendees, while former U.S. Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden also participated in the somber event.
- Book of Gospels: A memorable image captured was the pages of the Book of Gospels gently blowing in the wind atop the pope’s coffin, symbolizing continuity and faith.
Procession Through Rome
The funeral procession spanned four miles, showcasing the pope’s coffin to thousands of mourners lining the streets. The path took the procession by significant landmarks, including the Colosseum, allowing many to pay their final respects.
Upon arrival at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, which was to be his final resting place, mourners could witness the last moments of the pope in public view.