World Leaders Gather for Pope Francis’ Funeral in Vatican City

VATICAN CITY — On April 26, 2025, dignitaries from around the world gathered in Vatican City for the funeral of Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at 88 years old following health complications.

Thousands of mourners filled St. Peter’s Square to pay their respects. The ceremony started at 10 a.m. local time and lasted just over two hours, attended by more than 250,000 people, including leaders from over 150 countries.

Notable attendees included U.S. President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron. The service was co-celebrated by 220 cardinals and over 4,000 priests.

During the service, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re spoke fondly of the late pontiff, saying, “He was a Pope among the people, with an open heart towards everyone.” He highlighted Francis’ commitment to compassion and peace.

The ceremony featured Latin verses and Gregorian chants as the crowd observed a moment of silence. Pope Francis’ coffin, a simple wooden structure with a cross, was carried into the square, prompting applause from attendees.

Earlier, Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, marking their first discussion since tensions rose between the two leaders in February. Zelensky expressed thanks for the Pope’s prayers for peace in Ukraine, stating, “We remember his prayers for peace in Ukraine.”

Dignitaries were seated strategically, with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump sitting in the front row, alongside President Karis of Estonia and Alexander Stubb of Finland. Zelensky was seated just ten seats away.

Among other notable attendees were Prince William and Irish leaders Michael D. Higgins and Micheál Martin. Higgins honored the Pope’s leadership and expressed condolences, saying he was “often courageous, yet always came from a place of deep humility.”

The Spanish royal family, represented by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, also attended. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reflected on her friendship with the Pope, saying, “I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his advice, his teachings.”

Emotional tributes came from many leaders, including Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who called the Pope a “voice of compassion and respect.” U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres also honored the late pontiff, recognizing him as a “transcendent voice for peace.”

As the ceremony concluded, Pope Francis’ body was transported to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore for burial. This marks a significant departure from tradition, as he became the first pope to be buried outside the Vatican in over a century.

The Vatican will observe a nine-day mourning period following the funeral. The global admiration and sorrow for Pope Francis underscores his impact on the Catholic Church and the world, with many reflecting on his focus on issues like climate change, migration, and social justice.