Pope Francis, known for his acts of inclusiveness and humility, was laid to rest in a simple ceremony on Saturday. The funeral service, attended by hundreds of thousands, took place at St. Peter's Square in Rome. After the Mass, Francis' coffin was transported to the burial site outside the Vatican in a motorcade.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presided over the funeral, praising Francis as a pope who connected with all people and showed great compassion, especially to the marginalized. The Mass, marked by simplicity, began with readings from the Scripture as Francis' coffin was brought into the square.
Many mourners camped out overnight to pay their respects, highlighting the emotional significance of bidding farewell to the beloved pontiff. Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, was known for his warm demeanor and rejection of grandeur, even in death.
The funeral service, lasting two hours, culminated in Francis' burial in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, as requested by the pope himself. The burial site, a simple tomb inscribed with "Franciscus" and a reproduction of his pectoral cross, reflects his desire for humility and connection to his family roots in Italy.
Pope Francis' final resting place at St. Mary Major, a historic church and shrine, marks a departure from the tradition of burying popes in the grottoes beneath St. Peter's Basilica. The decision to be buried at St. Mary Major underscores Francis' devotion to Mary, Mother of God, and his commitment to simplicity.
World leaders, including President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, gathered in Rome to pay their respects to Pope Francis. The funeral service, filled with dignitaries, highlighted Francis' legacy of inclusivity and compassion for all people.