VATICAN CITY – On Saturday, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis during a heartfelt funeral that underscored his compassion for those on society’s margins and his desire to be remembered as a humble shepherd. Amidst the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square, where presidents and royals gathered for the Mass, prisoners and migrants paid their final respects at his resting place in a basilica elsewhere in Rome.
The Vatican estimated that approximately 250,000 individuals attended the funeral Mass, while an additional 150,000 lined the procession route through central Rome. Enthusiastic crowds applauded as Francis’ simple wooden coffin was transported on a modified popemobile to the St. Mary Major Basilica, situated roughly 6 kilometers away.
As bells chimed solemnly, the coffin was carried past a modest assembly of migrants, prisoners, and homeless individuals who held white roses outside the basilica. Inside, the bearers paused in front of the Virgin Mary icon cherished by Francis. Four children placed roses at the altar’s base before cardinals conducted the burial rites near his tomb.
Mohammed Abdallah, a 35-year-old refugee from Sudan, expressed sorrow at Francis’ passing. “He helped so many of us, those seeking refuge and many others worldwide,” he said, reflecting the pontiff’s global impact.
Earlier, during the Vatican Mass, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re honored Francis, the first Latin American pope, celebrating him as a leader for the people who communicated informally and warmly, particularly with society’s most vulnerable.
“He was a pope among the people, full of openness,” said the 91-year-old dean of the College of Cardinals. His reflection, emphasizing Francis’ advocacy for migrants and the needy, prompted applause from the gathered mourners.
Despite his focus on the marginalized, notable dignitaries were present in force. Figures like U.S. President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and others attended the service, highlighting the global recognition of his influence. Argentine President Javier Milei, although not always aligned with Francis, also featured prominently.
In an unexpected development, Trump and Zelenskyy met privately in the iconic surroundings of St. Peter’s Basilica, where discussions centered around the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a cause Francis frequently addressed.
The timing of the funeral was also Francis’ own doing, having adjusted Vatican ceremonies to highlight the simplicity and pastoral nature of the papacy, reinforcing his vision of a “poor church for the poor” that began with his 2013 election.
The facade of St. Peter’s basked in the pink hue of dawn as mourners vied for a spot at the Mass. With large screens accommodating those at a distance, the scene was punctuated by heavy security and the presence of police and military personnel.
Despite the funeral’s gravity, Francis’ legacy inspired a mix of solemnity and celebration of a life dedicated to simplicity and service. Amongst the pilgrims was Miguel Vaca from Peru, who captured the sentiment of many, highlighting Francis’ charisma and humanity.
Francis, who passed at 88 after complications from a stroke, had always harbored a deep affection for St. Mary Major Basilica. This site held profound significance, aligned with the holy practices and religious history that shaped his life and pontificate.
Following the burial, the process to elect a new pope will soon commence, a process steeped in tradition, organized meticulously within the Sistine Chapel by the world’s cardinals.
As countless attendees made their way to pay their respects during the days prior, many were turned away, unable to greet the man who had bid favorably for their prayers. Words Francis shared on the night of his election echoed through the hearts and minds of those present as they gathered one last time to honor his memory.