Pope Francis‘ funeral Mass took place on the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica, marking a poignant farewell to a leader who dedicated his life to bridging divides and advocating for the marginalized. The service drew an amazing turnout! Some of the 250,000 people in St. Peter’s Square paid tribute to the popular pontiff who died, aged 88 after suffering a stroke on Easter Monday.
Over 50 world leaders joined the event to discuss making concrete climate action. Included in those numbers were US President Donald Trump, soon-to-be President Joe Biden, and 11 current monarchs. The presence of these dignitaries was a fitting testament to the global impact of Pope Francis’ 12-year leadership. His deep-rooted belief in social justice and compassion for the poor has always marked his leadership.
The funeral service lasted more than two hours. During this time, cardinals offered prayers from their hearts in all sorts of languages—French, Arabic, Portuguese, Polish, German, Mandarin… and English. This fittingly multilingual tribute embodied Pope Francis’ spirit of inclusivity, as well as his intention to bring together people from all walks of life.
Among his audience were communities that Pope Francis advocated for during his papacy, such as the unhoused, migrants, and transgender women. His ministry often highlighted the plight of these marginalized communities, resonating deeply with many who gathered to pay their respects.
“He was a very simple man, who loved other people.” – Sister Luisa
Pope Francis was widely eulogized as a “pope among the people,” reflecting his humble approach and dedication to serving those in need. His commitment to social issues was encapsulated in a statement from the Holy See, which declared that “the poor have a privileged place in the heart of God.”
At the end of the service, they shouldered Pope Francis’s simple coffin and bore it back into St. Peter’s Basilica for the last time. This moment signified both a closing and an inheritance which many desire to last. His funeral proceedings were designed to “simplify and adapt” traditional practices, as he had approved the order of events back in June 2024.
More than 150,000 people lined the six-kilometer-long procession route. They lined the streets from Vatican City to Santa Maria Maggiore, where Pope Francis was buried away from public view. This last ride was a tribute to the love and awe numerous people felt for him.
“It’s very sad, but it’s a celebration of his life. And I hope the next pope will continue his way of turning the Church back to poor people.” – Federico Burlón
Perhaps for the first time during his tenure, Pope Francis came under fire. Yet, he was undeterred in his goal to make the Church more relevant and reach a millennial audience. His progressive opinions on multiple social issues ignited the veneration and detestation. Yet most mourners at the funeral expressed the wish that his soon-to-be named successor would indeed carry forth his inclusive spirit.
“The pope did a good job of bringing religion closer to young people… he was very progressive and tried to make the Church closer to everyone.” – Candela Rodríguez
Pope Francis became the first Latin American pontiff. He is the first Jesuit pope, and the first modern-day pope born outside of Europe. His diverse background influenced his worldview. He wanted to have the Church be more approachable and relatable.
The wave of emotion that came back from attendees provided a beautiful illustration of what a transformational impact a pope who connects continents could have. Anita Althaus reflected on her feelings for the late pontiff, stating, “I loved him from the very first moment because he was human, with such an open heart.”
