- Pope Francis’ funeral was attended by many, and he was remembered as a humble leader who deeply connected with people, especially the young and the marginalized.
- World leaders, including President Zelenskyy and former U.S. presidents, attended Pope Francis’ funeral, showing his global influence.
- Tens of thousands lined the streets of Rome during Pope Francis’ funeral as the pope’s coffin traveled to his final resting place at the Basilica of St. Mary Major.
Pope Francis was laid to rest on Saturday at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. He passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. More than 250,000 people came to say goodbye. St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican was filled with mourners, including world leaders, families, and many young people. It was a historic and emotional day. The funeral showed how deeply Pope Francis had touched lives all over the world.
Pope Francis honored as a leader close to the people
During Pope Francis’ funeral, Pope Francis was remembered as a “Pope among the people.” Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re gave the homily in front of the massive crowd. He praised Francis for his “strength and serenity.” – Francis followed the example of St. Francis of Assisi by showing love, kindness, and simplicity. He reached out directly to individuals, especially those suffering and marginalized. Re said, “He had an open heart toward everyone.” He added that Francis stayed attentive to the signs of the times and followed the Holy Spirit. The tribute showed how Francis lived a life of compassion and service.
Young people have strong presence at the funeral ceremony
Young people played a major role in honoring Pope Francis. Thousands of teenagers filled St. Peter’s Square to mourn. Francis had always connected with younger generations. His message of love and acceptance touched their hearts. About 80,000 teenagers had registered for the Catholic Church’s Jubilee of Teenagers event in 2025. Because of the pope’s passing, some plans changed. The canonization of Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old who died of leukemia in 2006, was postponed. Acutis will soon become the first “millennial” saint, a decision Pope Francis personally approved in July 2024.
Crowd erupts in applause as pope’s coffin appears
One emotional moment came when the pallbearers carried Pope Francis’ coffin out of the basilica. The crowd in St. Peter’s Square broke into loud applause. It was the same square where Pope Francis had led Easter celebrations just a day before his passing. The applause showed the deep love and respect people felt for him. The air was filled with both sadness and gratitude.
American journalist Kielce Gussie reads scripture during mass
Young adults were also part of the ceremony. American journalist Kielce Gussie, age 28, delivered the first scripture reading. She read in English from the Acts of the Apostles. Gussie works at Vatican News and studied theology at Mount St. Mary’s University. She also earned a degree in Church communication from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. Her role showed the global reach and impact of Pope Francis’ leadership.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy applauded by funeral crowd
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his wife Olena Zelenska attended the funeral. When Zelenskyy appeared on the big screens in the square, the crowd clapped warmly. Earlier that day, former President Donald Trump had met privately with Zelenskyy. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung described their conversation as “very productive.” It was the first meeting between the two since their difficult Oval Office meeting in February. First Lady Melania Trump attended the funeral with her husband. Former President Joe Biden and former First Lady Jill Biden were also present, sitting a few rows behind the Trumps.
Moving moment as Book of Gospels flutters in the breeze
One of the most touching sights during Pope Francis’ funeral was the Book of Gospels. It rested on top of Pope Francis’ coffin. As the wind picked up, the pages fluttered gently. The book had been opened to the reading about the Passion and death of Jesus. This simple image captured the spirit of the day. It was a powerful reminder of faith, hope, and the pope’s legacy.
Bells ring across Vatican as pope’s coffin enters basilica
As the funeral came to a close, bells rang out across the Vatican. The coffin was carried through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica for the final time. The funeral service lasted more than two hours. It ended with the sound of bells filling the air. Afterward, Pope Francis’ coffin was taken to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, where he was buried.
Thousands line Rome’s streets during funeral procession
The funeral procession was another unforgettable moment. After the mass, tens of thousands of people lined the streets of Rome. The route stretched four miles, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Pope Francis’ coffin was placed in the back of a white pickup truck, allowing everyone to see him one last time. People wept and applauded as the truck passed historic landmarks like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. When the coffin reached the basilica, it marked the final public appearance of Pope Francis. The Basilica of St. Mary Major will reopen to visitors on Sunday.
