Pope Francis’ Funeral: Thousands Present, World Unites

Pope Francis was buried in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The ceremony was a historic moment attended by more than 400,000 mourners and 130 delegations of countries and international organizations. The pope, known as the “people’s pope”, chose a simple procession in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, with a simple wooden casket, rejecting the luxury that usually accompanies a pope’s funeral.

World leaders attend Pope’s funeral

A number of important figures were present, demonstrating Pope Francis’ global influence. US President Donald Trump and Melania Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Argentine President Javier Milei were among the guests of honor. Britain’s Prince William and Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia also attended the emotional procession.

Seating arrangement at Pope Francis’ funeral

Seating arrangements are organized alphabetically in French, but with special exceptions. The President of Argentina and the President of Italy sat in the front row, honoring their special closeness to the Pope. Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy were also strategically positioned, reflecting the Vatican’s appreciation of their political influence.

A Moment of Diplomacy in the Midst of Grief

Apart from being a religious ceremony, the funeral was a diplomatic event. Trump and Zelenskyy even spoke briefly about the Ukraine situation, showing that the Pope’s spirit of peace resonates even in the midst of grief.

The simplicity of Pope Francis

Pope Francis’ choice to be buried without luxury, using a simple wooden coffin, emphasizes his life message of simplicity and alignment with the marginalized. An example that lives on even after his passing.

A Global Legacy of Pope Francis

Pope Francis’ funeral was not only a farewell, but also a symbol of his moral and diplomatic legacy. The world remembers Pope Francis as a man who transcended religious boundaries and became a bridge to humanity. His spirit of simplicity and peace will live on in the hearts of humanity.