Thousands gather to bid farewell to Pope Francis at solemn funeral

In a poignant tribute, up to 200,000 mourners are expected to fill St. Peter's Square as the world pays its final respects to Pope Francis, who will be laid to rest in a simple underground tomb at St. Mary Major Basilica, in accordance with his wishes.

The ceremony commenced with Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, leading the gathering in the Penitential Act, urging attendees to reflect on their sins before engaging in the sacred rituals. This solemn opening was followed by a heartfelt prayer invoking divine mercy for the beloved pontiff, emphasizing his role as a faithful steward of the Church.

As the Entrance Antiphon echoed throughout the square, bishops and cardinals took their places, creating a striking visual contrast with the sea of mourners dressed predominantly in black and white. The vibrant red cloaks of the cardinals added a splash of color to the somber atmosphere, while the casket, adorned with the Book of the Gospel, rested at the center of this historic setting.

The funeral procession, slightly delayed, began with the transfer of Pope Francis' coffin from St. Peter's Basilica to the square, where it would be honored in front of the gathered crowd. This moment marked a significant departure from the ornate funerals typically associated with high-ranking officials, reflecting Francis's preference for simplicity.

The arrival of world leaders further underscored the global impact of Francis's papacy. Among the dignitaries present were U.S. President Donald Trump, who has had his share of disagreements with the pontiff, and former President Joe Biden. They were joined by numerous heads of state, including EU Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, all united in their respect for the late pope.

As mourners streamed into the square, they were reminded to keep the atmosphere respectful, refraining from waving flags or banners during the procession. The anticipation was palpable as many sought to secure a place near the rear of the square, eager to witness this historic farewell.

Pope Francis's death on Monday, following a stroke, has left a profound void in the hearts of many around the world, making this funeral not just a local event, but a significant moment of collective mourning for a leader who championed compassion and unity.