In a solemn ceremony filled with reverence and emotion, the funeral of Pope Francis took place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at St. Peter's Basilica. The Mass began at 10:00 AM, attended by approximately 250,000 faithful who had come to pay their respects since the Pope's passing on April 21, 2025. The atmosphere was heavy with grief as the world bid farewell to a leader known for his compassion and dedication to the marginalized.
The funeral service, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, followed a simplified order as approved by the Pope himself in the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis last year. This approach reflected Pope Francis's desire for a humble and pastoral farewell rather than a regal display. Cardinal Re emphasized during the homily that the Pope’s mission was rooted in mercy and compassion for all, stating, "Papa Francesco ha sempre messo al centro il Vangelo della misericordia." (Pope Francis always centered his ministry on the Gospel of mercy.)
After the Mass, the funeral procession began, slowly making its way through the streets of Rome towards the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where the Pope will be buried. The procession covered approximately six kilometers, allowing the faithful to offer one last salute to their beloved leader. The hearse, designed to permit viewing of the coffin, proceeded at a gentle pace of 5 to 10 kilometers per hour, ensuring that thousands could gather along the route to pay their final respects.
As the procession passed through iconic locations such as Piazza Venezia, the Fori Imperiali, and the Colosseum, crowds erupted in applause and cheers, chanting phrases like "Viva Francesco!" (Long live Francis!). The sight of the simple wooden coffin, adorned only with a white cross and the episcopal coat of arms, resonated deeply with those who gathered. Many were moved to tears, recalling the Pope's messages of love and unity.
Upon arriving at Santa Maria Maggiore, the bells tolled in mourning, welcoming the coffin into the Basilica. The Pope’s burial site, located between the Cappella Paolina and the Cappella Sforza, is made of light Ligurian marble and features the inscription "Franciscus" alongside a reproduction of his pectoral cross. Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, the archpriest of Santa Maria Maggiore, noted that the tomb reflects the humble life that Pope Francis led, stating, "Il Papa ha scelto un posto umile come era lui" (The Pope chose a humble place as he was). This sentiment was echoed by many who attended the services.
In his will, Pope Francis had expressed a desire to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, a place he held dear, often visiting to pray before the icon of Salus Populi Romani. The Pope's decision was deeply personal, as he had instructed that his tomb be simple and without elaborate decoration. The burial ceremony itself was private, attended only by select family members and cardinals.
As the day unfolded, dignitaries from around the world gathered to honor the late Pontiff. Among them were U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed gratitude for the Pope's leadership in fostering peace. "Oggi ci siamo riuniti per onorare un uomo che ha guidato il suo popolo con gentilezza, forza pacifica e compassione" (Today we gathered to honor a man who led his people with kindness, peaceful strength, and compassion), stated von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission.
The ceremony was broadcast live in 15 languages, including sign languages, ensuring that Pope Francis's message of love and compassion reached a global audience. The Vatican's media team managed the coverage, allowing millions to participate in the memorial from afar.
Following the funeral, visits to Pope Francis's tomb will begin on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 7:00 AM, with the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore open for pilgrims and visitors. The tomb will remain accessible daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with the last entry at 6:30 PM. Given the expected turnout, security measures are being put in place to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors.
As the world reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, many remember his calls to "build bridges, not walls," a theme that resonated throughout his papacy. His commitment to peace, social justice, and care for the earth will continue to inspire generations. The Pope’s funeral marks not just a farewell but a celebration of a life dedicated to service and the betterment of humanity.
In a poignant farewell, the memory of Pope Francis will live on in the hearts of those he touched, as they carry forward his message of hope and compassion into a world that deeply needs it.
