In a poignant ceremony held in St. Peter's Square on April 26, 2025, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re officiated the funeral of Pope Francis, reflecting on the late pontiff's profound impact over his 12-year tenure. The cardinal's homily was a heartfelt tribute to a leader who was described as a "Pope among the people" with an open heart for all.
Cardinal Re began by acknowledging the overwhelming presence of heads of state and official delegations from around the world, expressing gratitude for their attendance. He remarked, "The outpouring of affection and participation we have witnessed in the days following his passing illustrates how deeply Pope Francis touched minds and hearts." This sentiment resonated throughout the square, filled with hundreds of thousands of mourners.
The cardinal recalled the last public appearance of Pope Francis on Easter Sunday, where, despite significant health challenges, he blessed the crowd from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica and later greeted worshippers from his open-top papamobile. "His last image, which will remain in our eyes and hearts, is that of a shepherd who cared for his flock until the end," Cardinal Re said.
Reflecting on Pope Francis's approach to his papacy, Cardinal Re highlighted his commitment to the marginalized and the needy. He noted that the pontiff often referred to the Church as a "field hospital" for those wounded by life's battles, emphasizing the need for compassion and care for every individual, regardless of belief or circumstance. This inclusive vision was evident in his first apostolic journey to Lampedusa, a symbolic location for the migrant crisis, where he mourned the loss of lives at sea.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis completed 47 apostolic journeys, including a historic visit to Iraq in 2021, which was seen as a balm for the wounds inflicted by years of violence and conflict. Cardinal Re described this trip as significant for interreligious dialogue, an essential aspect of Francis's mission. He also mentioned the pontiff's 2024 visit to four nations in Asia-Oceania, furthering his outreach to the world's peripheries.
In his homily, Cardinal Re emphasized the pope's belief in the importance of mercy, recalling the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy that Francis instituted. "Mercy is the heart of the Gospel," he stated, reiterating how Francis consistently reminded the faithful that God never tires of forgiving. This theme of mercy was central to the encyclical "Fratelli tutti," which called for a renewed global aspiration for fraternity, and the encyclical "Laudato si'," which urged responsibility towards our common home.
Cardinal Re articulated that Pope Francis's teachings were a response to the modern world's challenges, using vivid imagery and metaphors to address societal issues. He was noted for his spontaneous and informal manner, which endeared him to many, including those distant from the Church. "He shared the anxieties, sufferings, and hopes of our globalized world, offering comfort and encouragement with a message that reached the hearts of people directly and immediately," Re said.
Moreover, the cardinal highlighted the pope's commitment to peace. He quoted Francis's view that war results only in death and destruction, calling it a "tragic defeat" for humanity. The pontiff's advocacy for building bridges instead of walls was a recurring theme in his messages. Cardinal Re's remarks drew applause from the crowd, underscoring the resonance of these sentiments.
As the service continued, prayers were offered in multiple languages, including French, Arabic, Portuguese, Polish, German, and Mandarin, reflecting the global nature of Pope Francis's outreach and the diverse community he served.
In closing, Cardinal Re asked the congregation to pray for Pope Francis, stating, "Caro Papa Francesco, now we ask you to pray for us and bless the Church, bless Rome, bless the whole world, as you did last Sunday from the balcony of this Basilica in a final embrace with all the people of God." This heartfelt plea encapsulated the deep sense of loss felt by many.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was elected on March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI. His choice of the name Francis reflected his desire to emulate the humility and service of St. Francis of Assisi. Throughout his papacy, he maintained a strong focus on the marginalized, the environment, and the call for peace, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for its warmth and compassion.
The ceremony concluded with a solemn yet hopeful atmosphere, as the faithful gathered to honor a man who dedicated his life to service, embodying the spirit of love and mercy that he preached. As the world reflects on the life of Pope Francis, his message of fraternity and compassion continues to inspire, reminding all of the importance of caring for one another in a complex and often divided world.
