Rome Bids Farewell to Pope Francis - OMNIZERS The most Trusted

Near the iconic image of Mary Salus Populi Romani, Pope Francis was laid to rest today in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major, concluding a deeply moving procession through the city’s historic heart. The final journey underscored the late Pope’s profound connection to both the city and his faith.

ROME, April 27, 2025 — In a moment etched forever in the soul of the Eternal City, Pope Francis was laid to rest today in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, near the beloved icon of Mary Salus Populi Romani, to whom he so often turned in prayer. The final chapter of his remarkable earthly journey unfolded in a profoundly moving procession that united hundreds of thousands in mourning, reverence, and love. Pope Francis’ mortal remains buried in St. Mary Major.

Following a solemn and resplendent Requiem Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, the cortege made its way through the historic heart of Rome. Over 150,000 people lined the cobbled streets, their silence and tears more powerful than any hymn. The late Pontiff, who had so recently graced St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, unknowingly offering a last gesture of farewell from his popemobile, was now honored by the very people he had served with humility and courage.

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The procession moved through the city like a living rosary, passing the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum—symbols of both imperial grandeur and early Christian sacrifice. There, only a week ago, his meditations for the Way of the Cross resounded with prophetic urgency, decrying the “economy of indifference” and calling for “an economy of peace.”

At Piazza Venezia, the hearse paused near the monument to Italy’s fallen soldiers—a fitting tribute to a man who fought tirelessly for justice, peace, and the dignity of every human life. As the vehicle reached the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the coffin was lifted one final time, raised gently toward the faithful, many of whom knelt or crossed themselves in a quiet, unrepeatable moment of shared grief and grace.

Inside the Basilica, the atmosphere was thick with sacred silence as the Pope’s coffin was carried to the entrance of the Pauline Chapel. For a few poignant moments, it rested before the icon of Mary Salus Populi Romani—his protector, companion, and mother. Then, in a brief but deeply dignified rite, his remains were placed in the burial niche between the Sforza Chapel and the Pauline Chapel, in accordance with the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, presided over the Rite of Burial, joined by family members and a gathering of cardinals, clergy, and lay representatives. The liturgical ceremony concluded at 1:30 PM, marking the end of an era—but not of his legacy.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, leaves behind a world challenged, changed, and comforted by his papacy. His voice—firm yet tender—called for mercy in a world of judgment, simplicity in an age of excess, and a Church that walks with the poor, not above them.

Now, in eternal rest beside Mary, whose image watched over him on every journey, the Pope of the peripheries has come home. And perhaps, in the stillness of that ancient basilica, one can hear a whisper from heaven: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

A Final Farewell to Pope Francis: A Shepherd of Peace and Open Doors

Vatican City, — Twenty years ago, on the eve of Divine Mercy Sunday, the world mourned the loss of Pope St. John Paul II. Today, on the threshold of the same sacred celebration, thousands gathered once again in St. Peter’s Square to bid farewell to another beloved pontiff: Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio.

The image was deeply symbolic—a simple wooden coffin, crowned by an open Gospel book whose pages turned gently in the Roman breeze—an echo of a similar scene witnessed two decades earlier. It was a silent testimony to a life spent in the service of the Gospel and the people of God.

The funeral Mass was a profound, stirring, and heartfelt tribute to a pontiff whose last public appearance, on Easter Sunday, had left many unaware it would be his final blessing. Six days later, they accompanied him on his ultimate earthly pilgrimage, their sorrow mingled with gratitude.

The vast courtyard before St. Peter’s Basilica was a tapestry of humanity: heads of state, dignitaries, pilgrims, and notably, thousands of young people gathered for the Jubilee of Teenagers, whom the Pope had always dearly loved.

Among the mourners stood representatives from across the Christian world and other faith traditions, all united in honoring a man who, until his final breath, preached fraternity, compassion, and peace—even from his hospital bed, pleading for an end to the ravages of war.

Two passages from Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re’s homily drew spontaneous and emotional applause.

First, he underscored the heart of Pope Francis’s pontificate: “the conviction that the Church is a home for all; a home with doors always open.” It was a vision powerfully embodied in Lisbon, during the last World Youth Day, when the Holy Father cried out to the young pilgrims: “Everyone, everyone, everyone.” With these words, he reaffirmed that nothing—no failure, no difference—could sever the bond of divine love embracing each human soul.

Throughout his pontificate, Francis strove to build a Church where the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten found not judgment, but embrace. Fittingly, before being laid to rest, he was received one last time at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, before the image of Mary Salus Populi Romani, whom he so deeply venerated.

The second wave of applause arose as Cardinal Re recalled Francis’s tireless advocacy for peace. Pilgrims and dignitaries alike rose to their feet as he quoted the late Pope’s fervent words: “War is only the death of people, the destruction of homes, the destruction of hospitals and schools. War always leaves the world worse than it was before: it is always a painful and tragic defeat for all.”

In a poignant moment before the liturgy began, the Presidents of the United States and Ukraine exchanged a few private words, a gesture of dialogue that many interpreted as a final fruit of Pope Francis’s enduring call for “honest negotiations” and reconciliation among nations.

Today, as the world bids farewell to the first Pope to take the name of the Saint of Assisi—the saint of peace—it does so not only with tears, but with the hope that his final lessons of fraternity, mercy, and dialogue will endure in the hearts of all he touched.

A shepherd of open doors has returned to the house of the Father, leaving the world a little more open, a little more tender, and forever changed.

Pope Francis’ Final Legacy: The Poor and Marginalized Given First and Last Goodbye

A poignant and deeply moving tribute awaits the late Pope Francis. Following his funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, April 26th, a select group of marginalized individuals – the “least” among us, as he often referred to them – will have the singular honor of paying their final respects before his burial. Poor to bid last farewell to Pope Francis on the day of his funeral.

This deeply personal farewell, reflecting Pope Francis’s own wishes, will take place at the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Approximately forty individuals, representing the poor, homeless, prisoners, migrants, and transgender community, will gather on the basilica steps in Rome’s Esquilino neighborhood. For many, Pope Francis was more than a religious leader; he was a father figure, a source of comfort and hope in their often challenging lives.

Each person will hold a single white rose, a symbol of purity and reverence, as they offer their last tribute. This intimate ceremony will occur just before the Pope’s burial between the Pauline Chapel, home to the Salus Populi Romani icon deeply revered by both Romans and Pope Francis himself, and the Sforza Chapel. This final act of remembrance underscores the late Pope’s unwavering commitment to social justice and his profound empathy for those often overlooked by society.

The choice to allow this marginalized group to have this unique, private moment of farewell highlights the profound impact Pope Francis had on those most vulnerable. Their presence serves as a powerful testament to his legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication to the poor and marginalized. It is a fitting end to the life of a man who consistently championed the dignity of all, regardless of their social standing. Their white roses will be a silent yet powerful expression of gratitude and love, a final farewell from those whose lives he touched most deeply.

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A Final Act of Love: Pope Francis’ Burial to Include Intimate Farewell from the Marginalized

Vatican City – The funeral of Pope Francis, a figure renowned for his unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalized, will conclude with a deeply moving and profoundly symbolic act: a private farewell ceremony led by those he championed throughout his papacy. This intimate gathering, taking place at the Basilica of St. Mary Major following the public funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, will see approximately forty individuals from vulnerable communities – the homeless, prisoners, migrants, and transgender individuals – pay their final respects. The choice, reflecting the Pope’s own wishes, underscores his lifelong dedication to social justice and his belief in the inherent dignity of every human being, regardless of social standing.

A communiqué from the Holy See eloquently encapsulates the significance of this final farewell: “The poor hold a privileged place in God’s heart,” it states, “and therefore also in the heart and teachings of the Holy Father, who chose the name Francis so as never to forget them.” This sentiment, deeply ingrained in the fabric of Francis’s pontificate, finds its most poignant expression in this deeply personal and moving ceremony.

Bishop Benoni Ambarus, Secretary of the Commission for Migrations of the Italian Episcopal Conference and delegate for charitable initiatives, offered further insight into the significance of this final act of remembrance. He recalled a particularly powerful moment from December 26th, when he accompanied Pope Francis to the Rebibbia prison in Rome for the opening of the Holy Door – a pivotal event that symbolized the Pope’s unwavering commitment to reaching out to those incarcerated and often forgotten by society.

“I find this a very moving choice,” Bishop Ambarus shared with Vatican media. “Because Pope Francis is being received by the Mother he loved so much (Salus Populi Romani) and by his favourite children, who will surround him on this final journey. I think it’s something truly beautiful…” His words capture the essence of the ceremony: a deeply personal and intimate farewell, reflecting the profound bond between the Pope and those he consistently championed throughout his life.

The Basilica of St. Mary Major, chosen for this private ceremony, holds its own symbolic weight. The presence of the Salus Populi Romani icon, a Marian image deeply venerated by both Romans and Pope Francis, adds another layer of significance to this final act of remembrance. The Pope’s remains will rest between the Pauline Chapel, housing this revered icon, and the Sforza Chapel, creating a sacred space for this deeply personal farewell.

The selection of participants – individuals from marginalized communities – underscores the profound impact Pope Francis had on their lives. For many, he was not merely a religious leader but a source of hope, comfort, and unwavering support. Their presence at this private ceremony serves as a powerful testament to his legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication to the most vulnerable members of society.

This final farewell will not be a grand public spectacle, but a deeply intimate and meaningful tribute. Each participant, holding a single white rose, will offer their personal expressions of gratitude and love, representing a silent yet powerful chorus of voices from those whose lives were profoundly touched by the late Pope. It is a fitting conclusion to the papacy of a man who consistently prioritized the dignity and well-being of the marginalized, a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. The simple act of a private farewell speaks volumes, echoing the humility and compassion that defined Pope Francis’s life and ministry.

Pope Francis’ Funeral: A Celebration of the Marginalized
Rome, Italy – The funeral of Pope Francis, scheduled for [Date], promises to be a deeply moving and unconventional event, reflecting the late pontiff’s unwavering commitment to the marginalized and vulnerable. The final arrangements, born from a collaboration between Romanian-born Bishop [Bishop Ambarus’s name] and Bishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations, emphasize the presence of those often overlooked in societal structures. This decision, a testament to Francis’s legacy, aims to “strengthen the presence of the poor” and create a meaningful representation of his pastoral priorities.

The ceremony at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major will feature a poignant tableau of individuals representing various vulnerable groups: the impoverished, the homeless, migrants, former prisoners, and struggling families. These individuals, many of whom have had the privilege of meeting Pope Francis personally, will form a living testament to his profound impact on their lives. Bishop Ambarus highlighted this connection, noting that almost all participants have encountered the Pope at least once, underscoring the personal nature of this final tribute.

Adding another layer of complexity and significance to this unique gathering is the inclusion of “a small group of transgender individuals,” as Bishop Ambarus explained. These individuals, who live within a supportive community of nuns, represent a segment of society often marginalized and misunderstood. Their presence serves as a powerful symbol of the Pope’s inclusive vision and his unwavering commitment to extending compassion and acceptance to all.

However, the final guest list remains fluid, awaiting confirmation for certain participants. The presence of prisoners from Rome’s Rebibbia prison, a group deeply affected by the Pope’s pastoral initiatives, is still pending authorization. This uncertainty underscores the logistical challenges inherent in organizing such a unique and significant event, while simultaneously highlighting the importance of including those often excluded from mainstream society.

Bishop Ambarus, deeply touched by the Pope’s transformative influence on the lives of prisoners, particularly his initiative to transform a prison into a “cathedral,” poignantly described the emotional state of those incarcerated. He relayed the feelings of “emptiness” and “orphanhood” expressed by prisoners who participated in the Holy Door opening and Jubilee celebrations. Their letters and personal accounts paint a vivid picture of their loss, a sense of having lost a father figure, yet clinging to the hope instilled by the Pope’s unwavering support.

This hope, Bishop Ambarus emphasized, is rooted in the belief that “civil society and all of us do not forget them,” echoing Pope Francis’s consistent calls for remembrance and solidarity with the incarcerated. The inclusion of prisoners in the funeral ceremony directly addresses this hope, signifying a continued commitment to their well-being and a refusal to allow their voices to remain unheard.
The funeral of Pope Francis is shaping up to be more than just a religious ceremony; it is a powerful statement about the importance of inclusivity, compassion, and the enduring legacy of a pope who dedicated his life to serving the most vulnerable members of society.

The final guest list, once confirmed, will undoubtedly further solidify the unique and moving nature of this final farewell. The event promises to be a profound and unforgettable tribute to a man who redefined the role of the papacy, embracing those often left on the margins of society. The world watches with anticipation as this unprecedented funeral unfolds, a testament to a life dedicated to love, justice, and the unwavering pursuit of a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Pope Francis: A Legacy of Quiet Charity and Systemic Reform

Pope Francis’s papacy, marked by a profound emphasis on social justice and the plight of the marginalized, extended beyond pronouncements and pronouncements. It was characterized by a consistent pattern of concrete actions, often unseen, yet deeply impactful. His commitment to aiding prisoners, the unemployed, and the impoverished worldwide is a testament to his belief that charity must be tangible, extending from personal sacrifice to systemic reform.

Bishop Ambarus, a close confidante, sheds light on the Pope’s unwavering dedication to charitable giving. He highlights the Pope’s personal financial contributions to various causes, emphasizing that these acts of generosity often remained private, known only to the recipient and God. “The Holy Father always invited everyone to take action—and he did so himself,” Bishop Ambarus stated. “Most of this help remains known only to God, but some of it was made public. What is certain is that he always contributed personally. As he used to say: charity passes through the wallet, and he never held back.”

This personal commitment is exemplified by several initiatives. The creation of the “Jesus the Divine Worker Fund,” endowed with one million euros during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, stands as a significant example. This fund provided vital assistance to the Diocese of Rome’s most vulnerable populations: the unemployed, undocumented workers, those in precarious employment, and individuals struggling to meet basic needs such as food, healthcare, and utility bills.

The Pope’s generosity wasn’t limited to this single initiative. Another million euros were personally donated to renovate a former clergy house in Rome, transforming it into affordable housing for impoverished families. Bishop Ambarus underscores that these acts of charity weren’t confined to Rome; they extended globally throughout the entirety of Pope Francis’s pontificate. The scope of his contributions, both large and small, remains largely undocumented, a testament to his preference for quiet service.

Beyond individual acts of generosity, Pope Francis implemented significant reforms within the Church’s administrative structures. These reforms aimed to optimize the allocation of Church assets, ensuring that resources were directed towards supporting those most in need. This systemic approach complements his personal philanthropy, creating a dual strategy to combat poverty and inequality. The details of these reforms are complex and multifaceted, involving internal audits, revised financial protocols, and a renewed focus on transparency. However, the overarching goal remained consistent: to ensure that the Church’s resources were used effectively to alleviate suffering and promote social justice.

The impact of Pope Francis’s actions extends far beyond financial contributions. His consistent public advocacy for the poor and marginalized has inspired countless individuals and organizations to engage in charitable work. His words, coupled with his personal example, have resonated globally, fostering a renewed sense of responsibility towards the vulnerable within and beyond the Catholic community.

While the full extent of Pope Francis’s personal charitable giving may never be fully known, the available evidence paints a picture of a leader whose commitment to social justice transcended rhetoric. His actions, both public and private, serve as a powerful testament to his belief in the transformative power of compassion and the importance of tangible action in addressing global inequality. His legacy will undoubtedly be remembered not only for his theological pronouncements but also for his quiet, persistent, and deeply impactful acts of charity. The world awaits a more comprehensive accounting of his financial contributions, but the spirit of his generosity is already deeply felt across the globe. His legacy will continue to inspire acts of service and compassion for generations to come.