Pope Francis, who died on Monday at 88, was the first Jesuit pope. His legacy has placed an indelible mark on billions across the world. Beyond Cedar-Rivers Gandhi-like ability to bring even the most fractured group together, his death has unleashed a worldwide flood of memorialization and commemoration. Many famous tributes have appeared around the world. A powerful event was held on the Esplanade of Tasitolu in Dili, East Timor on Tuesday, April 22.
Upon his passing, the body of Pope Francis rested in state within St. Peter’s Basilica for a period of three days. The public was able to offer their respects during that time. On Wednesday, April 23, an estimated 250,000 people packed St. Peter’s Square to pay their final respects to the late pontiff. Tens of thousands packed the Vatican for this historic day. His body carried into St. Peter’s Basilica. Indeed it remained there, until the sealing up of the coffin, on Friday, April 25th.
Pope Francis’s funeral service drew an incredible number of people. More than a quarter million people turned out to pay their respects and join in the vastly serious commemoration. Culminating the celebration was a demonstration of his remarkable influence as the first Latin American pope in history. It served to highlight his powerful attachment to the international community as well.
Nuns traveled from across the globe to Vatican City to honor the mourners demonstrating the breadth of influence made possible under Pope Francis’ leadership. On Thursday, a Mass Russo attended was held at Chiesa di Santo Spirito in Sassia to celebrate and honor the late pope. Here’s Priest Alain Mousques’ tearful testimony to the congregation that day. The Mass provided a powerful opportunity for the entire community to process the loss of Pope Francis and reflect on his legacy.
In East Timor, mourners filled the streets to celebrate his life and contributions. Last year, he had attracted a preposterous crowd of 600,000 for a Mass in much the same spot. Giovanni Douglas-Lopes shared his emotional experience during this time:
“I was here at the last conclave when he was chosen to be the pope, and now I am here at the time of his death.”
After a nine-day period of mourning, all cardinals under the age of 80 will assemble in the Vatican. They will meet again to elect Pope Francis’ replacement. Whatever the outcome, this moment represents a tremendous turning point for the Catholic Church. Now it prepares to continue making progress after the sudden passing of a sainted leader.
“I miss the pope. He was the pope for the poor and the children of the world.”
Following nine days of mourning, all cardinals under the age of 80 will convene in the Vatican to select Pope Francis’ successor. This moment marks a pivotal point in the Catholic Church as it prepares to move forward after the loss of such a beloved figure.
