The world is in mourning as global leaders gather in Rome for the funeral mass of Pope Francis. The late pontiff, known for his compassionate leadership and efforts to address contemporary issues like climate change, will be laid to rest at Santa Maria Maggiore, his favorite church in Rome.
The funeral mass in St Peter’s Square has drawn scores of dignitaries, including US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and former US President Joe Biden. Royals from the UK, Spain, Sweden, and Denmark are also in attendance, along with heads of international institutions like the UN and the European Commission.
Over 200,000 mourners have gathered in St Peter’s Square to pay their respects to Pope Francis, who sought to make the Catholic Church more accessible during his 12-year papacy. The burial will mark the start of a nine-day mourning period, followed by a secretive conclave to select the new pope from eligible cardinals under the age of 80.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Luis Tagle, and Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu are among the early frontrunners to succeed Pope Francis. The funeral mass will be presided over by Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, whose homily is expected to offer spiritual guidance to the cardinal electors.
Following the mass, the coffin will be taken to Santa Maria Maggiore, where Pope Francis will be buried outside the walls of Vatican City. A 5.5km funeral procession will pass by Rome’s famous monuments, allowing mourners to pay their respects to the beloved pontiff.
As the world bids farewell to Pope Francis, his legacy of compassion and advocacy for change will continue to inspire future generations. The funeral ceremony serves as a reminder of his dedication to serving as a pastor and disciple of Christ, rather than a powerful figure in this world.
