HAPPENING NOW: World leaders, others bid final farewell to Pope Francis

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2 weeks ago

World leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of mourners are gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday to bid a final farewell to Pope Francis, honoring the pontiff in a historic funeral ceremony.

As the simple wooden coffin of the late pope was carried into the square under bright skies, applause broke out among the crowd, reflecting the deep affection many felt for the man who led the Catholic Church with humility and compassion.

Over 200,000 mourners, including 220 cardinals, 750 bishops, and 4,000 priests, have filled Vatican City. Millions more are watching the ceremony from around the world.

Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, a longtime friend of Francis, is presiding over the Mass. He praised Francis as “a shepherd who walked with his people and showed God’s mercy to the world.”

Among the attendees are global figures including US Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Britain’s Prince William. Many spoke of Francis’ impact on global issues, from his push for peace to his advocacy for the marginalised.

In keeping with his wishes for a modest farewell, Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major instead of the traditional site under St. Peter’s Basilica.

His 12-year papacy, marked by a call to compassion, care for creation, and attention to society’s most vulnerable, leaves a lasting legacy now being celebrated by the world.

(DW)