World Leaders and Faithful Gather to Honor Pope Francis at State Funeral
More than 50 heads of state are in attendance for the state funeral of Pope Francis at the Vatican, as Roman Catholics gather to pay tribute to a pontiff known for his humility and advocacy for the marginalized, including the poor and migrants. On April 26, presidents and prime ministers from over 150 countries will join thousands of faithful in St. Peter's Square to bid their final farewell at a funeral Mass scheduled to start at 10 am local time.
Among the dignitaries expected is US President Donald Trump, who notably clashed with Francis on various occasions, especially concerning their diverging views on immigration. Also present will be the president of Argentina, the pope's homeland, alongside leaders from France, Germany, Italy, the Philippines, Poland, Britain, and New Zealand. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had indicated uncertainty about his attendance due to a recent missile attack in Kyiv but expressed his wish to attend if circumstances allowed.
The event will be graced by more than a dozen royal figures, including Britain’s Prince William, as well as approximately 224 cardinals and 750 bishops and priests. Notably absent is a representative from China, which lacks formal relations with the Vatican, and Israel, sending its ambassador in response to Francis's criticisms regarding its actions in Gaza.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, Easter Monday, at the age of 88 after suffering from a stroke. The Vatican reported that around 250,000 people had paid their respects over the three days prior to the funeral, viewing the pope's body laid in a wooden coffin. Attendees noted his distinctive red robes, a bishop’s miter, and his well-worn black shoes, showcasing the personal touch he had brought to his role.
During his papacy, which began in 2013, Francis worked to reform the Church and reached out to those in need, often walking the streets and taking public transportation to better connect with ordinary people. He lived a modest life in an apartment and famously prepared his meals alone to maintain a sense of normalcy. In a poignant gesture, a one-page account of his papacy was placed inside the coffin before it was sealed.
In anticipation of the large turnout, Italy has reinforced security measures, deploying over 2,500 police officers and 1,500 soldiers. The funeral is expected to attract around 200,000 mourners in St. Peter's Square, with an additional 300,000 expected along the 4-kilometer route leading to the pope’s burial site at St. Mary Major Basilica. A group of individuals from impoverished backgrounds will have the honor of greeting the pope's coffin upon its arrival at the basilica, following which the burial will take place privately.
Following a mourning period, Catholic cardinals from around the globe will convene for a conclave to elect a new pope. This private meeting is not expected to commence before May 6, allowing cardinals the necessary time to confer, reflect on one another’s perspectives, and assess the current challenges facing the Church, including financial issues and ideological divisions.
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