Massive crowds gather at Vatican for Pope Francis’s funeral: Video
Tens of thousands of mourners packed St. Peter’s Square today for the funeral of Pope Francis, the beloved "Pope of the Poor" and the first Latin American leader of the Catholic Church.
Pilgrims, dignitaries, and world leaders flooded into the Vatican, with some braving the cold and waiting overnight to secure a place at the historic ceremony.
Among those in attendance were U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, members of European royal families, and red-robed cardinals from across the globe.
The atmosphere was a poignant mix of solemnity and gratitude, with many speaking warmly of Pope Francis’s legacy of humility, compassion, and social justice.
“This is history, and I’m very proud to be here," said Nerina Lyons, an 80-year-old tourist from Houston, Texas. She added, "It’s cold, but I feel warmth anyway because of his love for us. He's watching over us, God is for sure, but also Papa Francesco."
For many pilgrims, the journey to honour the late pontiff was long and marked by deep devotion. Giorgina, a 74-year-old visitor from Peru, recounted spending the night outside the square. “We’ve been here all night. All night outside. They won’t let us through and we want to get in,” she told the AFP.
Others shared stories of unexpected connections forged during their pilgrimage. Eglina, a 29-year-old from Lithuania, said she met fellow mourners on her flight from London. "We’ve been waiting about three hours. It’s been an incredible experience, even just standing here together," she said.
For many, the day was not only about saying goodbye but also about expressing profound gratitude. Marzena, a 47-year-old from Forlì, Italy, spoke through tears. "I thank him for everything he did for the world, for us. He helped me understand so many things. I don't even know how to say it, I'm very emotional," she said. "I want to offer my prayer, from me and from the whole world, especially from the poor, because he was a Pope for the poor. I’m not rich myself," she added.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.
