On April 26, 2025, the Vatican witnessed a historic farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. The funeral service, held in St. Peter's Square, drew an astonishing crowd of nearly 400,000 people, marking a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church. This event not only celebrated the life of the first South American pope but also raised questions about his succession and the future direction of the Church.
The day began early, with thousands arriving at St. Peter's Square to pay their respects. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as leaders from around the globe gathered to honor a man who had dedicated his life to advocating for peace, justice, and compassion. Among the dignitaries present were U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, all seated prominently as the ceremony unfolded.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, presided over the funeral mass, which was attended by 224 cardinals and 750 bishops and priests. In his homily, Cardinal Re emphasized Pope Francis's commitment to peace, stating, "He was a pope in the midst of the people, with a heart open to all." The cardinal recalled how the late pontiff had consistently raised his voice against wars and injustices, urging the world to seek peaceful resolutions.
As the service commenced, the solemnity of the occasion was palpable. The coffin, a modest wooden structure, was carried out to the square, where the crowd recited the rosary in unison. The sound of bells echoed through the air, marking the beginning of the procession. The Pope's body was then transported through the streets of Rome, passing iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, as thousands lined the route to catch a glimpse of the papal cortege.
For many, this was not just a farewell but a celebration of a life well-lived. Luca, a 15-year-old boy who traveled from Lecco with his parish, expressed his feelings, saying, "It's an important day, and Pope Francis always thought of us, the children. Like a family member." His sentiment resonated with many who felt a personal connection to the Pope, reflecting his outreach to the youth and marginalized communities.
In addition to the mass held at St. Peter's, a special ceremony took place at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, where Pope Francis was laid to rest. The basilica, one of the four major papal basilicas in Rome, had not hosted a papal burial since the 17th century. The burial was conducted in private, adhering to the wishes of the late pontiff.
As the funeral concluded, the Vatican announced a period of mourning, lasting nine days, during which daily masses would be held in honor of Pope Francis. These masses, known as "novemdiales," will continue until May 4, 2025, allowing the faithful to gather and remember the Pope's legacy.
While the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, discussions about his successor have already begun. The conclave, responsible for electing the next pope, is expected to convene between May 5 and May 10, 2025. With the Church facing numerous challenges, including rising secularism and internal divisions, the choice of the next pope will be crucial in shaping its future.
As tributes pour in from around the world, the impact of Pope Francis's teachings on mercy, justice, and community service continues to resonate. His legacy, described by many as one of compassion for the poor and a voice for the voiceless, will undoubtedly influence the direction of the Church for years to come.
In the wake of his passing, supporters have also organized events to honor the Pope's memory. For instance, Marseille supporters plan to display a special tifo during their match against Brest, paying tribute to the pontiff who had a profound impact on them.
The Pope's funeral was not just a reflection of his life but also a moment for the Church to contemplate its future. As the faithful gather to mourn and celebrate, the question of who will take the helm of the Catholic Church remains at the forefront of discussions within the Vatican and among the global Catholic community.
As the world watches, the legacy of Pope Francis will continue to inspire many to seek peace and solidarity in a time of division and conflict.
