A Tribute to Pope Francis: Remembering a Champion of the Marginalized
On Friday, the Vatican reported that over 150,000 people have paid their respects to Pope Francis as his body lies in state at St. Peter's Basilica ahead of his funeral. The outpouring of love came from both ordinary citizens and leaders around the globe, showcasing the pope's enduring legacy and the impact he had on millions.
Born to Italian immigrants in Argentina, Pope Francis dedicated his papacy to the defense of refugees, making it a fundamental aspect of his mission. His first pastoral trip outside Rome in July 2013 was a poignant visit to Lampedusa, a small island that had become a tragic focal point for migrants risking their lives crossing the Mediterranean. In a moment that defined his papacy, he expressed profound sorrow for the lives lost during perilous journeys, emphasizing that society had "forgotten how to cry" for these souls.
The senseless loss of life on such journeys ignited in Francis a duty to advocate for the marginalized, prompting him to travel extensively and shine a light on the plight of refugees. His visits to places like Lampedusa and Lesbos served not merely as gestures but powerful affirmations of humanity in the face of suffering.
As the world prepares to say goodbye, Serie A has postponed three matches scheduled for Saturday, as Pope Francis's funeral will be taking place in Rome that day. The Catholic community and sporting bodies alike are coming together to honor his memory. Even the Italian National Olympic Committee has called for a suspension of sporting events for the day, reflecting the deep respect and mourning felt across the nation.
In a break with tradition, Pope Francis requested a simpler funeral arrangement, opting for a single wooden coffin lined with zinc instead of the elaborate three-coffin tradition. This choice underscores his belief in humility, as he felt the previous rituals were too ornate for his taste.
The funeral mass is set to begin at 10 AM local time and will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the college of cardinals. In a final departure from customs, Francis will be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome, chosen deliberately to remove any notion of papal privilege, as elaborated upon in his testament.
After his funeral, the public will have the opportunity to visit his tomb starting Sunday morning, allowing people to continue to honor the man who worked tirelessly for the most vulnerable. A conclave to select his successor will begin within the next few weeks, marking the start of a new chapter for the Catholic Church.
As we reflect on Pope Francis’s life, it is essential to remember him not only for his position as the head of the Catholic Church but as a compassionate leader whose work to heal the world’s wounds will resonate for generations to come.
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