Royalty, presidents, prime ministers, and tens of thousands of mourners attended the Vatican on Saturday to bid a final farewell to Pope Francis, concluding a historic 12-year papacy. The Argentine pope, who passed away at 88 after suffering a stroke, was remembered for his legacy of humility, reform, and worldwide advocacy for the people below the poverty line and marginalized.
In a tearful goodbye to Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Square, US President Donald Trump, European royals, and world leaders of over 150 nations stood among thousands of devout. While Francis’ decision for a modest funeral, one zinc-lined coffin, and burial outside the Vatican defied long-held traditions, reflecting his lifetime appeal for simplicity. As Italy began one of its largest security operations, the Church now readies itself for the next conclave to choose his successor.
WATCH | World Leaders Pay Last Respects To Pope Francis In Vatican City
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World Leaders and Royalty Unite for Final Farewell
Since early morning, mourners poured into the Vatican. Pilgrims such as Maria Fierro and Sister James Mary overnighted to grab front-row positions. Approximately 250,000 people occupied St. Peter’s Square and the adjacent esplanade to see the funeral Mass presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
Significantly, US President Donald Trump, who habitually sparred with Francis on climate change and immigration, graced the gathering with leaders of France, Germany, Ukraine, Argentina, Poland, and Britain. Prime Ministers and royals across Europe made appearances too, even as politicians overcame ideologues in tribute to honor Francis’ untiring stance in defense of those under poverty levels, the voiceless, and peace.
Break From Papal Traditions: Francis’ Simple Farewell
In keeping with his convictions, Francis opted for a humble goodbye. Unlike his predecessors, he refused burial in three interlocking coffins. Rather, he lies in a simple zinc-lined wooden casket bearing only the inscription “Franciscus.” His funeral procession was only 90 minutes long, much shorter than the three-hour-long procession for Pope John Paul II.
In addition, he was the first pope in more than a century to be entombed outside the Vatican and chose the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome to be his eternal resting place. His funeral motorcade passed through Rome, providing ordinary citizens one final glimpse at the “people’s pope.”
Security around the Vatican remained extremely tight. Italy closed its airspace, deployed anti-aircraft missiles, and dispatched patrol boats to guard the event, making it one of the largest security operations since John Paul II’s funeral.
The Church Faces an Uncertain Future
With Francis’ funeral, focus quickly moves to selecting his replacement. The closed-door conclave, probably beginning after May 6, will have cardinals from around the globe assemble.
They now have to work through a Church with severe financial difficulties, ideological divisions, and the challenge of capitalizing on Francis’ legacy of reform and openness.
