On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Pope Francis was laid to rest in a ceremony that blended tradition with his lifelong commitment to simplicity and humility. The funeral, held in St. Peter’s Square, was attended by over 130 heads of state, including U.S. President Donald Trump, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron. Additionally, a group of the poor and needy, whom the late pope had a special place for, were present to pay homage to the first Jesuit and first Latin American pope before his burial in the St. Mary Major Basilica .AP News+1The Daily Beast+1
A Ceremony Reflecting Pope Francis’ Legacy
Pope Francis’ papacy was marked by his advocacy for the marginalized, environmental stewardship, and efforts to make the Church more inclusive. His funeral reflected these values, incorporating significant Catholic symbols and traditions. Items such as his miter and crozier, representing spiritual leadership and pastoral care, were placed alongside him. A bag containing twelve coins, one for each year of his papacy, signified the duration of his tenure. The Rogito, a formal document summarizing his reign, was read aloud and sealed in the coffin, with a copy stored in the Vatican archives. Francis was also buried with a rosary and his death certificate, signed by the camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell. Notably, his Fisherman’s Ring was ceremonially broken before burial, marking the official end of his papal authority .New York Post+1AP News+1
A Simple Burial Reflecting His Humility
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis chose to be buried outside the Vatican. He had prepared his tomb in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, where he frequently prayed before and after his trips abroad. This decision was in line with his desire to simplify papal funerals and to be laid to rest in a place that held personal significance to him .MyNriNationThe Guardian+1MyNriNation+1
Global Mourners Pay Their Respects
The funeral attracted over 200,000 people, including dignitaries from around the world. Notable attendees included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who met briefly with President Trump before the ceremony—a move seen as potentially reflective of Pope Francis’ peace efforts. Despite his past criticisms of the late pope, Argentine President Javier Milei also attended the funeral .ElHuffPostThe Daily Beast
The Church Enters a Period of Mourning
Following the funeral, the Church entered a nine-day period of mourning. A conclave to elect a successor is expected to take place, with the traditional smoke signals indicating the election of a new pope. Pope Francis’ legacy includes significant reforms, simplicity, and a pastoral focus that has left a lasting impact on the Catholic Church .AP News
Remembering a Pontiff Who Embraced Simplicity
Pope Francis’ funeral was a testament to his life and papacy. It was a ceremony that honored his commitment to humility, his dedication to the marginalized, and his efforts to make the Church more inclusive. As the Church moves forward, it will undoubtedly continue to reflect on the profound impact of his leadership.New York Post
Global Leaders and Mourners Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral
What to know about the funeral and burial of Pope Francis
TodayThe Daily BeastHumble Pope Laid to Rest Surrounded by Kings, Queens and PresidentsToday
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