Pope Francis's funeral was held on April 26, 2025, at 4 PM Hong Kong time at St. Peter's Square, marking a significant moment in the Catholic Church's history. This ceremony was notable for featuring Chinese prayers for the first time, reflecting the late pope's efforts to improve relations with China. According to an 87-page document released by the Vatican, the funeral was expected to last over two hours, showcasing a blend of tradition and modernity.
The ceremony commenced with a solemn atmosphere as worshippers recited four lines of scripture in Mandarin Chinese: "Pray for us gathered here, may we after celebrating the sacred mysteries, one day be called by Christ to enter His glorious kingdom." This unprecedented inclusion of Chinese prayers highlighted Pope Francis's commitment to fostering dialogue with the Chinese community.
The funeral was largely conducted in Latin, with additional prayers and readings in French, Arabic, Spanish, Polish, German, Italian, and English, showcasing the global nature of the Catholic Church. The readings were consistent with those from the funerals of previous popes, including John Paul II and Benedict XVI, featuring passages from the Acts of the Apostles, the Philippians, and the Gospel of John.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, led the funeral mass. The ceremony included Gregorian chants performed by the St. Peter's Basilica choir, creating a reverent ambiance. Attendees were invited to join in singing parts of the liturgy in Latin, with the phrase "Lord have mercy" sung in Greek, further emphasizing the universal nature of the service.
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis's remains were not interred in the Vatican but instead were taken to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major for burial. This decision broke a centuries-old tradition of popes being buried in St. Peter's Basilica. The late pope had expressed a personal connection to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, having visited it over 100 times during his papacy. His family history also ties back to the basilica, as his grandparents lived nearby and often visited.
The sealing ceremony for Pope Francis's coffin took place the evening before the funeral, on April 25, 2025. During this ceremony at St. Peter's Basilica, the Papal Master of Ceremonies draped a white silk scarf over the pope's face and placed documents and coins from his papacy inside the coffin. This act was performed by Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, the Vatican's Secretary for the Papal Household, as a final tribute to the pope's legacy.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, due to a stroke and heart failure, following a bout of pneumonia. His death prompted a three-day public viewing during which over 250,000 people paid their respects, underscoring his impact on the global Catholic community.
The funeral was attended by a distinguished array of world leaders, further emphasizing the pope's global significance. Among the attendees were U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with 130 delegations, including 50 heads of state and 10 reigning monarchs. Notably absent was Russian President Vladimir Putin, who did not attend the ceremony.
Representatives from Australia included Governor-General Sam Mostyn, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton chose not to attend. This decision was met with various reactions, as the Australian government sought to balance representation with personal and political considerations.
The ceremony also marked the beginning of the "Novemdiales," a nine-day mourning period observed in the Catholic Church following the death of a pope. The service was designed to simplify traditional funeral practices, which Pope Francis had advocated for during his life. He had expressed a desire for a more accessible and less formal approach to the rituals surrounding his passing.
As the funeral concluded, the hearse carrying Pope Francis's remains departed through the Gate of Perugino, allowing the public to bid farewell as it made its way to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. This route was chosen to enable mourners to pay their last respects, a poignant gesture in light of the pope's dedication to serving the people.
Pope Francis's legacy includes his commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue, and a focus on environmental issues, which resonated with many around the world. His tenure was marked by efforts to engage with diverse communities and promote peace, reflecting his belief in the importance of compassion and understanding.
In summary, the funeral of Pope Francis was not just a farewell to a beloved leader but a celebration of a life dedicated to service and unity. The inclusion of Chinese prayers and the decision to be buried at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major highlighted his vision for a more inclusive and compassionate Church. As the world reflects on his contributions, Pope Francis's influence will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
