The funeral of Pope Francis, a global event, took place in Rome, drawing hundreds of thousands of mourners and numerous world leaders. Dignitaries from over 80 countries attended the Mass in St. Peter's Square, including heads of state and religious figures. The service honored Pope Francis's legacy of humility, mercy, and his message of unity and inclusion. The event also saw a meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, highlighting the funeral's significance on the world stage.
10 days ago
An estimated 250,000 people gathered in Rome to bid farewell to Pope Francis 1 2 4. The attendees included heads of state, religious leaders, and ordinary pilgrims from around the globe 1 2. The event drew representatives from over 130 countries and various international organizations 18 19.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, in his homily, emphasized Pope Francis's missionary vision, human warmth, and commitment to mercy 1 2 14. He highlighted Pope Francis's conviction that the Church should be a home for all, with doors always open, especially to the marginalized 6 12 16. The homily also underscored the Pope's tireless pleas for peace and his belief in building bridges, not walls 1 6 16.
The funeral Mass followed the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, updated by Pope Francis himself 2 14. Scripture readings included passages about Peter's love for Jesus and the call to "feed my sheep" 2 14. A significant moment was the meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscoring Pope Francis's bridge-building efforts 1 7 11. The service concluded with the singing of the "In Paradisum" antiphon 2 14.
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis was entombed in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a place of great personal significance to him 1 2 3 10 14. The procession through Rome drew thousands of onlookers who expressed their gratitude 1 3 10. His simple tomb is marked only with the name "Franciscus" 2 14. Following the funeral, the Church entered a nine-day mourning period, with attention turning towards the upcoming conclave to elect his successor 1 2 14.
This headline suggests the death of Pope Francis and the subsequent funeral arrangements. Here's what Catholic teaching says about such events:
The death of a Pope initiates specific procedures and traditions within the Catholic Church, including funeral rites and preparations for the election of a new Pope .