Funeral of Pope Francis Draws Thousands to Vatican
VATICAN CITY (AP) — An outpouring of grief and respect was evident as hundreds of thousands gathered at the Vatican on Saturday for the funeral rites of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. Notable leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and around 60 other heads of state, traveled from across the globe to pay their respects.
A poignant moment was marked by the presence of the poor and needy, who gathered at St. Mary Major Basilica to honor the first Jesuit and Latin American pope. Known for his deep compassion, Francis dedicated his papacy to the marginalized, embodying the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, whose name he adopted.
Lines of faithful pilgrims formed over the past three days as they paid homage to the beloved pontiff, whose body lay in a simple wooden coffin in St. Peter’s Basilica. The outpouring of love and reverence for Francis highlighted his significant impact on the world, fostering connections among diverse communities through his advocacy for migrants and environmental issues.
However, his legacy is seen as complex; while he made strides in inclusivity, particularly with the LGBTQ+ community, criticisms remain regarding his handling of clergy sexual abuse scandals.
As Saturday’s service commenced, the atmosphere was filled with emotion, with thousands gathering in St. Peter’s Square and nuns and pilgrims taking their seats for the ceremony. Banners, including one bearing the Ukrainian flag, showcased the global reach of Francis’s influence.
The funeral, a historic event for the Catholic Church, emphasized Francis’s role as a bridge between the powerful and the marginalized, leaving a lasting mark on the hearts of many around the world.
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