Pope Francis Funeral Draws 250,000 Attendees, Cardinal Re Celebrates Legacy

Pope Francis was commemorated at his funeral as a compassionate leader who prioritized the marginalized and consistently emphasized mercy and fraternity in a divided world. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, delivering the homily, highlighted Francis’s commitment to making the Church a welcoming home for all and recalled his advocacy for migrants, including his visits to refugee camps and the U.S.-Mexico border. The late pope was praised for centering the Gospel of mercy, reminding the faithful that God never tires of forgiving. The funeral drew global attention, with over 200,000 people present in St. Peter’s Square and delegations from numerous countries and faith traditions, underlining the widespread impact of Francis’s pontificate. Re thanked the many heads of state and dignitaries in attendance, noting the outpouring of affection as evidence of how deeply Francis touched the world. Francis was laid to rest in a simple tomb at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, in accordance with his wishes.