World Leaders Gather in Vatican City to Pay Final Respects to the Late Pontiff
VATICAN CITY — In a historic gathering today, U.S. President Donald Trump joined over 150 international leaders, royals, and thousands of mourners at St. Peter’s Square for the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after a stroke. The funeral marked the end of a deeply influential 12-year papacy, and drew global attention due to the pope’s legacy, humble values, and efforts to reform the Catholic Church.
A Global Farewell in the Heart of the Vatican
The funeral Mass began at 10 a.m. (0800 GMT) in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, with Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 91, presiding over the ceremony. The event was attended by high-profile leaders, including:
- Donald Trump (USA)
- Emmanuel Macron (France)
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Ukraine)
- Sergio Mattarella (Italy)
- Andrzej Duda (Poland)
- Prime Ministers of the UK and New Zealand
- European Royals and delegates from over 150 countries
More than 250,000 mourners filled the square and surrounding areas to witness the final tribute to the Argentine-born pope.
The Legacy of Pope Francis
Pope Francis made history as the first non-European pope in 1,300 years, known for his progressive stance on climate change, migration, and social justice. He consistently called for peace, criticized global inequality, and promoted compassion for the poor and marginalized.
His papacy was also marked by tensions with traditionalists and conservative factions within the Church, especially due to his efforts to increase transparency and address internal crises.
A formal Latin summary placed near his body praised him for his “testimony of humanity, of a holy life, and of universal fatherhood.”
A Funeral That Reflects Simplicity and Change
True to his personal beliefs, Pope Francis requested a simpler funeral, rejecting much of the pageantry typically associated with papal ceremonies. Unlike his predecessors, his service was kept to 90 minutes, half the duration of Pope John Paul II’s funeral in 2005.
- He was laid to rest in a single zinc-lined wooden coffin, instead of the traditional three-layered caskets made of cypress, lead, and oak.
- His final resting place is the Basilica of St. Mary Major, located about 4 km from the Vatican, making him the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican grounds.
- His tomb simply reads “Franciscus” in Latin, topped with a replica of the iron cross he often wore.
Rome Locks Down for Security
Italy implemented one of its most extensive security operations in recent memory. The city’s airspace was shut, and anti-aircraft systems, along with patrol boats, were deployed to ensure the safety of attendees and maintain public order.
What Happens After the Funeral?
With the pope now laid to rest, focus shifts to the conclave, a secretive meeting of cardinals to elect the next pope. This process is not expected to begin until after May 6, giving Church leaders time to evaluate its current direction, challenges, and future leadership.
