VATICAN CITY. The world said its final goodbye to Pope Francis on Saturday with a somber funeral held in St. Peter’s Square, following his passing on Easter Monday at the age of 88. As the first Latin American pope, Francis’ death has left a profound impact, drawing millions to mourn and reflect on his life and papacy.
Funeral Location and Details
Pope Francis’ funeral took place in the historic St. Peter’s Square, where his coffin was placed for the public to pay their respects. Afterward, his body was moved to St. Mary Major Basilica, where he had wished to be buried in a simple, underground tomb. The basilica held special meaning for the pope, who had a deep devotion to the Virgin Mary, especially to the icon of Salus Populi Romani, located there. This icon was a focal point for his prayers before many of his foreign travels.
A Personal Farewell
Though many had anticipated the pope would be buried within the Vatican, Pope Francis had requested in his will to be laid to rest at St. Mary Major. This basilica, with its spiritual significance, offered the pope comfort throughout his papacy, making it a fitting final resting place. The entombment was a private event that allowed those closest to him to pay their respects.
World Leaders Attend the Ceremony
The funeral saw a global turnout, with many heads of state and dignitaries in attendance. U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and Prince William were among those present. This attendance underscores the global influence of Pope Francis, who was admired for his humility and outreach to the poor.
Why Young People Attended
In an unexpected twist, young people, originally gathered in Rome for the canonization of Carlo Acutis, also took part in the funeral. The canonization ceremony was postponed after Pope Francis’ death, but many young pilgrims chose to stay in Rome for the papal funeral. While the event was filled with solemn reverence, some attendees captured moments on their phones, adding a sense of lightness amidst the mourning.
What Happens Next: The Election of a New Pope
Following the pope’s death, the process of selecting a new pope begins. Cardinals will now enter the conclave, a sacred and secretive event where they vote for the next leader of the Catholic Church. Black smoke will indicate no decision has been made, while white smoke will signify the election of a new pontiff.
Pope Francis’ Enduring Legacy
Pope Francis’ papacy was one of humility, simplicity, and profound care for the marginalized. He was known for eschewing the luxury associated with the papacy, choosing to live in the Vatican’s Domus Santa Marta and forgoing the grand Apostolic Palace. His calls for social justice, climate change action, and greater inclusivity, particularly for LGBTQ+ people, were central themes of his leadership. His first papal trip in 2013 to the island of Lampedusa to meet African migrants marked his commitment to the dignity of all people.
The Final Moments
The night before his funeral, Pope Francis’ coffin was sealed by the Vatican’s camerlengo in the presence of senior cardinals. Inside the coffin, a bag containing coins minted during his papacy and a one-page document known as the “rogito” recounting his papacy were placed. The sealed coffin was then covered with a white cloth before being transported to its final resting place.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, his legacy of faith, humility, and dedication to social justice will continue to inspire people worldwide.
With reports from the Associated Press and the Vatican News
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
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