Vatican Holds Funeral Mass for Pope Francis I. Patriarchs of Eastern and Syriac Churches read prayers

VATICAN CITY — At 10 a.m. on Saturday, mourners gathered in St. Peter’s Square to honor Pope Francis I, who passed away on April 21 following a heart attack at his Vatican residence. The late pontiff was 88 years old and had served as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church for 12 years. 

The solemn Mass, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, lasted two and a half hours and was conducted in Latin. Heads of the Eastern Catholic Churches participated, offering prayers during the ceremony and highlighting the global unity and diverse traditions of the Catholic community.   

Born in Argentina, Pope Francis’ tenure as pontiff was marked by a commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue, and advocating for marginalized populations. As per Catholic canon law, the site of his funeral rites was the same as the place of his passing—St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of the Vatican. 

An estimated 100,000 mourners attended, including 170 monarchs, presidents, and world leaders, such as the President of the United States and the First Lady, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, and heads of state from Ukraine, France, Brazil, and the United Kingdom. With the Vatican under heightened security, the city ensured a safe and solemn atmosphere for the ceremony. 

Pope Francis’ body had been placed in St. Peter’s Basilica three days earlier, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. Following tradition, his coffin was sealed the night before the funeral and later transported to the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, where he was laid to rest.   

The Vatican declared a nine-day mourning period, during which Catholics worldwide will reflect on Pope Francis’ contributions to the Church and his legacy as a global unifier. After the mourning period concludes, the College of Cardinals will convene to elect the next pope.   

This funeral Mass was a poignant reminder of Pope Francis’ ability to bridge divides within the Church and foster global connections. His leadership inspired millions and shaped the Catholic community’s path in modern times.