In the heart of Rome, images of Pope Francis's tomb have surfaced, capturing the profound sense of loss felt by many. The tomb, located at the Santa Maria Maggiore church—one of the city's four major basilicas—was revealed to the public following a private ceremony held after his public funeral on Saturday. A solitary white rose rests on the stone tomb, giving a touching tribute to the pontiff who passed away at the age of 88.
Thousands of mourners flocked to the basilica to pay their respects since it opened to the public, eager to commemorate a leader who significantly impacted their lives. Rosario Correale, an Italian visitor, shared his emotional reaction upon seeing the tomb, remarking on the profound mark Francis left on the world. Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska echoed this sentiment, remarking that the simplicity of his tomb perfectly suited the nature of the pope himself.
The choice of burial site was intensely meaningful. For Francis, Santa Maria Maggiore has always held a special significance; it was the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, a devotion that he cherished throughout his papacy. The basilica, located near the bustling central Termini station and far from the Vatican where popes are traditionally interred, highlights Francis's connection to the people. In a statement made by a senior priest, it was revealed that Francis had expressed his wish to be laid to rest in this sacred space back in 2022.
The funeral saw an impressive turnout, attended by global leaders and vast crowds of Catholic faithful, all gathered to honor the pontiff's legacy. Emotional hymns resonated throughout the venue, complemented by the presence of notable figures. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re delivered a touching homily, urging attendees to heed the pope’s call to "build bridges, not walls."
Following the funeral, the procession through the streets of Rome became a moment of collective mourning, with approximately 140,000 people in attendance, clapping and waving as Francis's body was transported in a repurposed white popemobile. Sightings of iconic landmarks marked the route, adding to the poignant ambiance of the occasion.
As the world reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, discussions regarding the selection of a new pope have begun. While a date for the conclave has yet to be officially announced, it is anticipated that it could commence in early May, consisting of 135 cardinals—the largest conclave in modern history.
Thousands of mourners flocked to the basilica to pay their respects since it opened to the public, eager to commemorate a leader who significantly impacted their lives. Rosario Correale, an Italian visitor, shared his emotional reaction upon seeing the tomb, remarking on the profound mark Francis left on the world. Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska echoed this sentiment, remarking that the simplicity of his tomb perfectly suited the nature of the pope himself.
The choice of burial site was intensely meaningful. For Francis, Santa Maria Maggiore has always held a special significance; it was the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, a devotion that he cherished throughout his papacy. The basilica, located near the bustling central Termini station and far from the Vatican where popes are traditionally interred, highlights Francis's connection to the people. In a statement made by a senior priest, it was revealed that Francis had expressed his wish to be laid to rest in this sacred space back in 2022.
The funeral saw an impressive turnout, attended by global leaders and vast crowds of Catholic faithful, all gathered to honor the pontiff's legacy. Emotional hymns resonated throughout the venue, complemented by the presence of notable figures. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re delivered a touching homily, urging attendees to heed the pope’s call to "build bridges, not walls."
Following the funeral, the procession through the streets of Rome became a moment of collective mourning, with approximately 140,000 people in attendance, clapping and waving as Francis's body was transported in a repurposed white popemobile. Sightings of iconic landmarks marked the route, adding to the poignant ambiance of the occasion.
As the world reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, discussions regarding the selection of a new pope have begun. While a date for the conclave has yet to be officially announced, it is anticipated that it could commence in early May, consisting of 135 cardinals—the largest conclave in modern history.
