VATICAN CITY – In a historic moment, world leaders, religious figures, and thousands of faithful gathered in Vatican City today to bid farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 88. The funeral ceremony, held at St. Peter’s Basilica, was marked by prayers, hymns, and tributes reflecting his legacy of compassion, humility, and global outreach.
Dignitaries from across the world, including heads of state, monarchs, and spiritual leaders, attended the solemn service. Among the attendees were U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, and leaders from Latin America and Africa — regions where Pope Francis had strong connections due to his tireless advocacy for the poor and marginalized.
The Vatican confirmed that after the funeral Mass, Pope Francis would be laid to rest in the crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, close to his predecessors.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, became the first pope from the Americas in 2013. His papacy was marked by a focus on mercy, social justice, interfaith dialogue, and care for the environment.
Today’s ceremony not only honored his life but also served as a reflection of the widespread influence he had in reshaping the modern Catholic Church.
