Rome Bids Farewell to Pope Francis: A City Mourns, a Church Remembers

Rome, Italy – A sea of mourners lined the streets of Rome today, their collective grief a poignant symphony of applause and heartfelt cries of gratitude as the mortal remains of Pope Francis embarked on their final journey. The scene was a breathtaking blend of ancient history and modern devotion, a testament to the late pontiff’s profound impact on the world.

Following a deeply moving funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope’s casket, borne by pallbearers, made its way through the hallowed halls of the Basilica, pausing briefly at the steps leading to St. Peter’s tomb before being gently placed onto a specially adapted popemobile. The vehicle, a symbol of papal authority re-purposed for this solemn occasion, emerged into the bright Roman sunlight to a chorus of cheers and applause from the hundreds already gathered.

The motorcade, escorted by four motorcycle police officers, then proceeded along the route, a slow, dignified procession through the heart of the city. The Vatican and Italian police estimated that a staggering 150,000 people witnessed this final farewell. The crowds were thickest along the wide boulevard in front of Torre Argentina, the very spot where Julius Caesar met his tragic end. Tourists and locals alike thronged the streets, many precariously perched atop ancient stone walls, their cameras capturing this historic moment. Residents leaned from their apartment windows, their faces reflecting a shared sense of loss and respect. As the motorcade passed, a wave of emotion swept through the crowds – clapping, cheering, and heartfelt cries of “Grazie, Papa Francesco” (“Thank you, Pope Francis”) and “Viva il papa!” (“Long live the pope!”) filled the air. Thousands line streets of Rome to bid final farewell to Pope Francis.

The cortege’s path took it past the Gesu Church, the mother church of the Society of Jesus, where the remains of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order, lie in rest. This symbolic passage underscored Pope Francis’s legacy as the first Jesuit pope, a leader who embodied the values of his order.

Even outside the city’s famed Colosseum, tens of thousands gathered, eager to pay their respects. Among them was a group of 50 young people from the Diocese of Verona, in Rome for the Jubilee of Adolescents. For 23-year-old Samuele Simoni, the unexpected death of Pope Francis, which occurred while his group was en route to Rome, was a profound shock.

“It was unimaginable,” Simoni told Catholic News Service. He described the farewell procession as a powerful demonstration of the Church’s strength during this time of mourning. He emphasized the late Pope’s significant influence on young people, stating that participating in the farewell was “definitely a time in which they could also fully experience a bit of the Jubilee.” He added, “People often think of the Jubilee as seeing the pope in a different way. Yet, it is certainly an emotional moment of prayer that is both strong and beautiful. For them, it will truly remain an indelible memory in their hearts.”

The day’s events served as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Pope Francis, a leader whose humility, compassion, and commitment to social justice touched millions around the globe. Rome, a city steeped in history, bore witness to a deeply moving farewell, a final act of love and respect for a man who dedicated his life to serving others.

A Private Farewell: Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Solemn Ceremony

Rome, Italy – In a deeply moving yet private ceremony, Pope Francis was laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major today, concluding a week of mourning that captivated the world. Unlike the public spectacle of his funeral Mass, the burial itself was a more intimate affair, a reflection of the late pontiff’s simple and humble nature.

The casket, carried by pallbearers in a solemn procession down the central nave of the Basilica, was accompanied by a select group of cardinals, including Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals; Cardinal Roger M. Mahony, retired archbishop of Los Angeles; Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, former prefect of the Apostolic Signature; Cardinal Stanisław Ryłko, archpriest of the Basilica of St. Mary Major; Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, coadjutor archpriest of the basilica; Cardinal Pietro Parolin, secretary of state under Pope Francis; Cardinal Baldassare Reina, papal vicar of Rome; and Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the papal almoner. Their presence underscored the profound respect and affection held for the late Pope within the highest echelons of the Catholic Church.

Before reaching his final resting place, the procession paused before a chapel holding special significance for Pope Francis. It was here that he often offered prayers and laid flowers before an icon of Mary. In a touching tribute, two boys and two girls presented baskets of white flowers, placing them before the altar beneath the Marian icon, a symbol of faith and devotion.

The burial rite, presided over by Cardinal Farrell, was not broadcast live, a decision announced earlier in the week by Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni. This choice emphasized the private and reflective nature of the event, allowing for a more intimate farewell.

However, the Vatican press office did announce that “a group of the poor and needy” would be present to welcome the casket, a gesture reflecting Pope Francis’s unwavering commitment to the marginalized. This was further evidenced by the presence of five prisoners from Rome’s Rebibbia prison, granted special permission to attend.

This inclusion was particularly poignant, given Pope Francis’s deep affection for prisoners. He frequently celebrated Holy Thursday Mass in prisons and jails, a testament to his unwavering belief in redemption and second chances. Just four days before his death, he visited Rome’s Regina Coeli jail.

The depth of his compassion was further highlighted by the recent revelation from Auxiliary Bishop Benoni Ambarus of Rome, as reported by Avvenire, the newspaper of the Italian bishops’ conference. Bishop Ambarus disclosed that Pope Francis had recently made a personal donation of €200,000 ($228,100) to a pasta factory run by prisoners at Rome’s Casal del Marmo prison. Expressing the prisoners’ sense of loss, Bishop Ambarus stated his intention to ensure their presence at the funeral, saying, “We will see what we can do.” This final act of generosity underscores Pope Francis’s lasting legacy of compassion and his unwavering commitment to those often overlooked by society. The private burial, therefore, was not merely an end, but a quiet affirmation of a life dedicated to the service of others.

Pope Francis’ Final Resting Place Reflects a Lifetime of Faith

Rome, Italy – The choice of the Basilica of St. Mary Major as Pope Francis’ final resting place is not merely a geographical detail; it is a profound statement reflecting the late pontiff’s deep and abiding faith. This basilica, so dear to his heart throughout his papacy, served as a sanctuary where he sought solace, strength, and guidance. His decision to be buried there, revealed to be a divinely inspired choice, speaks volumes about his spiritual journey and his unwavering devotion to the Virgin Mary.

The Basilica holds a special significance for Pope Francis, who frequently visited to pray before the icon “Salus Populi Romani” (“Health – or salvation – of the Roman people”), particularly before and after his papal travels. This intimate connection underscores the profound influence Mary had on his life and ministry.

The revelation of his burial wishes, shared by Cardinal Makrickas at a briefing outside the basilica, adds a layer of divine mystery to the story. Initially hesitant about a burial site outside St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis reportedly confided in Cardinal Makrickas in May 2022 that the Virgin Mary herself had instructed him: “Prepare the tomb.” This deeply personal account lends a spiritual weight to the decision, transforming it from a simple logistical choice into a powerful testament to faith.

The tomb itself, a testament to simplicity and elegance, is crafted from Ligurian marble, a nod to the region where the late pope’s grandparents hailed from. Inscribed with the Latin version of his name, “Franciscus,” and adorned with a large reproduction of his pectoral cross, the tomb serves as a fitting tribute to his life and legacy.

Pope Francis’s final testament, published shortly after his death, further illuminates his decision. He expressed his desire to be laid to rest in the basilica dedicated to Mary, entrusting his “priestly and episcopal life and ministry” to her maternal care. His reasoning is further expounded upon in his autobiography, “Hope,” published earlier this year. In it, he articulates his choice to forgo burial in St. Peter’s Basilica, stating that the Vatican, “the home of my last service, is not my eternal home.”

Instead, he chose the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a place of profound spiritual significance for him. “I will go in the room where they now keep the candelabra close to the Regina della Pace (Queen of Peace) from whom I have always sought help, and whose embrace I have felt more than a hundred times during the course of my papacy,” he wrote. These words paint a vivid picture of a man deeply connected to his faith, finding solace and strength in the embrace of the Virgin Mary. His final resting place, therefore, is not merely a tomb, but a sacred space reflecting a lifetime of devotion and a profound trust in the maternal love of Mary.

A World Mourns: Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Solemn Ceremony

Vatican City – A sea of mourners, dignitaries, and world leaders gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday to bid a final farewell to Pope Francis, whose 12-year papacy left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world. The funeral Mass, a breathtaking spectacle of faith and global unity, showcased the late pontiff’s profound impact, drawing an estimated 250,000 people from across the globe.

The ceremony was a poignant blend of solemnity and celebration, a fitting tribute to a leader known for his warmth, humility, and unwavering commitment to social justice. From presidents to royalty, and from simple mourners to cardinals, the attendees represented a diverse tapestry of humanity united in grief and respect. Among the notable figures present was U.S. President Donald Trump, whose past disagreements with the Pope on issues such as migration and environmental protection, were overshadowed by the solemnity of the occasion. His presence alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, inside St. Peter’s Basilica, provided a striking image of unexpected diplomacy amidst global conflict. The two leaders reportedly met briefly, underscoring the Pope’s legacy of fostering dialogue even amidst deep political divides.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, presiding over the Mass, eloquently captured the essence of Francis’s legacy. He described the late pontiff as “rich in human warmth and deeply sensitive to today’s challenges,” emphasizing his profound connection to the anxieties, sufferings, and hopes of the modern world. The Cardinal’s message was clear: Francis’s vision of a more inclusive and compassionate Church, one that champions the marginalized and protects the environment, is not to be abandoned.

The funeral itself was a visual masterpiece. The arrival of Francis’s coffin, adorned with a large cross, was met with thunderous applause. The vibrant colors of the attendees – the black of world leaders, the red of cardinals, the purple of bishops, and the white of priests – created a breathtaking panorama from above, a testament to the global reach of the Catholic Church and the Pope’s influence. The final moments, as the casket was gently tilted to allow more mourners a glimpse of their beloved Pope, were marked by another wave of heartfelt applause, a final expression of love and gratitude.

The Pope’s death on Monday, at the age of 88, following a stroke, marked the end of an era. However, his legacy – a legacy of compassion, social justice, and unwavering faith – will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come. The upcoming conclave to elect his successor will be a pivotal moment, as cardinals grapple with the question of whether to continue Francis’s progressive path or return to more traditional doctrines. The world watches with bated breath, as the future of the Catholic Church hangs in the balance.

People attend the funeral Mass of Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, April 26, 2025. REUTERS/Remo Casilli — People attend the funeral Mass of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, April 26, 2025. REUTERS/Remo Casilli

From Public Dressing-Down to Cordial Exchange: Zelenskyy and Trump Meet at Pope Francis’ Funeral

Vatican City – The funeral of Pope Francis provided an unexpected stage for a renewed encounter between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Their meeting, a stark contrast to their last encounter at the White House in late February, which saw a public rebuke of Zelenskyy by Trump, appeared notably more cordial. Images released by Zelenskyy’s office depict the two leaders engaged in close conversation, sitting side-by-side in St. Peter’s Basilica, their body language suggesting a productive exchange. A White House official described their discussion as “very productive,” a sentiment echoed by Zelenskyy, who deemed it a “good meeting.” The shift in tone suggests a potential easing of tensions between the two nations, amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Pope’s funeral itself was a meticulously orchestrated spectacle of global mourning and ancient ritual. The sheer scale of the event was breathtaking: over the past three days, approximately 250,000 people paid their respects to the late pontiff, filing past his open coffin in the vast St. Peter’s Basilica. The funeral Mass, a vibrant tapestry of faith and international representation, featured Latin hymns sung by choirs and prayers recited in multiple languages – Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, and Arabic – reflecting the global reach of the Catholic Church.

The scene in St. Peter’s Square was one of both profound sadness and fervent devotion. Many faithful camped overnight to secure a place at the front of the crowd, their dedication a testament to the Pope’s enduring popularity. Aurelie Andre, a French pilgrim, poignantly captured the mood: “When I arrived at the square, tears of sadness and also joy came over me. I think I truly realized that Pope Francis had left us, and at the same time, there is joy for all he has done for the Church.” Her words encapsulate the complex emotions experienced by mourners worldwide, a blend of grief for the loss of a beloved leader and gratitude for his profound impact on the world.

Beyond the Trump-Zelenskyy meeting, the funeral drew a significant number of world leaders, including the presidents of Argentina, France, Gabon, Germany, the Philippines, and Poland, along with the prime ministers of Britain and New Zealand, and numerous royals, such as the King and Queen of Spain. The event served as a powerful reminder of the Pope’s global influence and the profound respect he commanded across political and cultural divides. The meticulously planned transition period following his death, marked by ancient rituals and solemn pomp, underscored the significance of this historical moment for the Catholic Church and the world.

Franciscus: A Legacy of Simplicity and Change

The world bid farewell to Pope Francis on Saturday, concluding a papacy that defied tradition and challenged the status quo. The first non-European pope in nearly 13 centuries, Francis dedicated his 12-year reign to reshaping the Catholic Church, championing the poor and marginalized, while urging wealthy nations to address the global crises of migration and climate change.

His legacy, however, was not without its challenges. While lauded for his profound humanity and commitment to social justice, Francis’s progressive agenda faced resistance from traditionalist factions within the Church. His pleas for peace, unity, and a more equitable economic system often fell on deaf ears, highlighting the complex and often intractable nature of global issues.

Even in death, Francis’s commitment to simplicity shone through. He eschewed the elaborate, centuries-old funeral rites and opted for a pared-down ceremony, reflecting his personal humility and aversion to ostentation. The traditional three interlocking caskets – cypress, lead, and oak – were replaced by a single, zinc-lined wooden coffin, a stark departure from papal tradition. His tomb, simply inscribed with “Franciscus” in Latin, and topped with a reproduction of his iron cross, serves as a fitting epitaph to a life dedicated to humble service.

Now, the focus shifts to the future of the Catholic Church and the selection of Francis’s successor. The secretive papal conclave, responsible for choosing the next pope, is not expected to begin before May 6th, and could be delayed further. This extended timeframe will allow cardinals to engage in crucial preliminary meetings, assessing the complex challenges facing the Church – financial difficulties and deep ideological divisions – before embarking on the momentous task of electing a new leader. The world awaits with anticipation, as the future direction of the Catholic Church remains uncertain. The legacy of Franciscus, however, will undoubtedly continue to shape the discourse and inspire debate for years to come.

Pope Francis’ Final Days: A Testament to Gratitude and Faith

VATICAN CITY — In a poignant revelation, the Vatican shared that Pope Francis’ last words were a heartfelt expression of gratitude to his personal health care assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti, who had supported the pontiff through his final days.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who passed away Monday following a stroke and subsequent heart failure, displayed the same humility and warmth in his final moments that defined his papacy. His words to Strappetti highlighted not only his gratitude but also a deeply personal moment that unfolded just days before his passing.

A Return to St. Peter’s Square

Pope Francis, frail yet resolute, expressed a wish to ride once more in the iconic popemobile and surprise the faithful during Easter celebrations. The ride would culminate in the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

“Do you think I can manage it?” the ailing pontiff had asked Strappetti, shortly after being discharged from Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Despite his declining health, Francis was determined to connect with the more than 50,000 believers gathered to hear his Easter message.

Strappetti’s reassurance proved instrumental. On April 20, 2025, Pope Francis fulfilled his wish, appearing radiant as he delivered the blessing from the balcony. The cheers of the crowd filled St. Peter’s Square, and the pope later confided to Strappetti, “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.”

Following his Easter appearance, Francis spent a peaceful afternoon at the Vatican. He enjoyed a quiet dinner and rested early that evening. However, by dawn on Monday, he experienced a sudden decline in health. His medical team responded swiftly, but the pontiff succumbed to the combined effects of the stroke and heart failure.

A Legacy of Compassion

Pope Francis’ papacy was marked by his focus on inclusion, humility, and care for the marginalized. His final act of addressing the faithful on Easter underscored his unwavering commitment to serving the Church and its followers, even in his last days.

The Vatican has announced plans for a week of mourning, with Pope Francis’ body lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica before a state funeral to honor his remarkable life and legacy.

As the world reflects on his final words of gratitude, they serve as a reminder of the pope’s enduring humanity and his ability to inspire faith, even in the face of his own mortality.

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