Pope Francis has been laid to rest following a grand funeral ceremony attended by hundreds of thousands, including numerous world leaders, reflecting on the legacy of the first South American pontiff who died at 88.
Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Historic Vatican Funeral Amid Global Tributes
Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Historic Vatican Funeral Amid Global Tributes
Rome bids farewell to Pope Francis as thousands gathered for his funeral, marking a poignant end to his 12-year papacy.
In a solemn yet vibrant atmosphere, the streets of Rome overflowed with pilgrims and dignitaries mourning the loss of Pope Francis, whose funeral service on Monday was a heartwarming spectacle of faith and unity. The day began under a soft haze as nuns, priests, and young pilgrims converged at the Vatican, with security heightened due to the attendance of over a hundred dignitaries from around the globe.
As an estimated 200,000 people gathered, the funeral resonated with the reminders of the Pope's advocacy for migrants and peace. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re led the mass, invoking the Pope's enduring message of compassion during turbulent times—a sentiment echoed by many in attendance. The gathering was a colorful display of faith, blending diverse traditions and heartfelt tributes.
World leaders, on hand to pay their respects, engaged in private discussions, including an unexpectedly historic meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump. Crowds erupted with applause as the Pope's coffin was unveiled and later transported through Rome, stopping at significant landmarks, culminating in his burial at Santa Maria Maggiore.
Throughout the day, the atmosphere remained respectful and united, with many expressing hope for lasting peace in light of the Pope's legacy. As Rome shifts its focus to the upcoming conclave that will select the next Pope, reflections on what Pope Francis represented linger among both the citizens of Rome and Catholics worldwide, setting the stage for another momentous chapter in the Vatican's history.
As an estimated 200,000 people gathered, the funeral resonated with the reminders of the Pope's advocacy for migrants and peace. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re led the mass, invoking the Pope's enduring message of compassion during turbulent times—a sentiment echoed by many in attendance. The gathering was a colorful display of faith, blending diverse traditions and heartfelt tributes.
World leaders, on hand to pay their respects, engaged in private discussions, including an unexpectedly historic meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump. Crowds erupted with applause as the Pope's coffin was unveiled and later transported through Rome, stopping at significant landmarks, culminating in his burial at Santa Maria Maggiore.
Throughout the day, the atmosphere remained respectful and united, with many expressing hope for lasting peace in light of the Pope's legacy. As Rome shifts its focus to the upcoming conclave that will select the next Pope, reflections on what Pope Francis represented linger among both the citizens of Rome and Catholics worldwide, setting the stage for another momentous chapter in the Vatican's history.
