On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, a profound sense of mourning enveloped St. Peter's Basilica as tens of thousands of faithful gathered to pay their last respects to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. The Pope, known for his messages of peace and inclusivity, died following a stroke that had left him in a state of decline for several months.
The body of Pope Francis was transferred in a grand procession to the basilica, where it was placed before the high altar, allowing the public to file past his open coffin. This marked a significant moment in the Catholic Church, as many had come to honor a leader who had been both beloved and controversial during his twelve-year pontificate.
The ceremony began early in the morning, with the coffin being escorted from the modest chapel of the residence at Sainte-Marthe, where Pope Francis had lived since his election in 2013. In a departure from tradition, the Pope’s remains were laid out without a catafalque, reflecting his desire for simplicity and humility in death, mirroring his approach to life and leadership.
Public viewing hours were set to accommodate the expected crowds: from 11 AM to midnight on Wednesday, 7 AM to midnight on Thursday, and 7 AM to 7 PM on Friday. The Vatican anticipated that tens of thousands would come to pay their respects, reminiscent of the 200,000 who honored his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, before his burial. The funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, in St. Peter's Square, where numerous heads of state are expected to attend, including Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron, and Volodymyr Zelensky.
In a poignant reflection of the Pope's influence, Carmela Mancuso, a 79-year-old from Calabria who had moved to Rome in 2017 to see the Pope during his audiences, expressed her sorrow. "I feel too much pain; I will pray at home," she said, highlighting the deep emotional connection many felt toward him.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on March 13, 2013, became the first South American pope and was noted for his advocacy for the marginalized, his calls for environmental stewardship, and his efforts towards interfaith dialogue. His death has elicited tributes from global leaders and ordinary citizens alike, each recalling his unique approach to the papacy.
As preparations for the funeral continued, the Italian government declared a national mourning period of five days, with flags at public buildings set to be flown at half-mast on the day of the funeral. This gesture of respect was echoed in other countries, including Poland, where a day of mourning was also announced.
In a statement reflecting the global impact of the Pope’s work, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described him as "a messenger of hope, humility, and humanity." His commitment to advocating for the poor and vulnerable, as well as his outspoken stance on issues such as climate change and migration, resonated with many around the world.
During his pontificate, Pope Francis faced criticism for his handling of sexual abuse scandals within the Church, yet he also made significant strides in addressing these issues. While some within the Church saw him as a reformer, others viewed him as ambiguous in his responses to the crisis.
As the faithful gathered at St. Peter's Basilica, the atmosphere was one of solemnity and reverence. Many shared stories of how Pope Francis had touched their lives, emphasizing his role as a shepherd who sought to bring people closer to God and each other.
In a notable tribute, soccer star Lionel Messi shared a heartfelt message on social media, saying, "A singular pope, Argentinian. Rest in peace, Pope Francis. Thank you for having made the world better. You will be missed." This sentiment encapsulated the feelings of many who viewed the Pope not just as a religious leader, but as a global figure who championed love and compassion.
The funeral service on Saturday is expected to draw hundreds of thousands, with security measures in place to ensure the safety of attendees, including world leaders. The Pope's remains will eventually be transferred to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where he will be laid to rest according to his wishes for a simple burial.
As the world reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, discussions about his successor are already beginning. The conclave, expected to convene within weeks, will see approximately 135 cardinals electing the next leader of the Catholic Church, continuing the tradition that has shaped the faith for centuries.
In the wake of his passing, Pope Francis leaves behind a complex legacy of love, humility, and a call for justice that will resonate through the ages. His commitment to the marginalized and his push for a more compassionate Church will be remembered as hallmarks of his time as the Bishop of Rome.
