Thousands lined Rome's streets as Pope Francis laid to rest after Vatican funeral | BBC News

Summary of Pope Francis's Funeral and Burial

Key Concepts:

• Pope Francis's funeral and burial
• Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
• St. Peter's Square
• Papal traditions and simplifications
• Legacy of mercy and inclusivity
• Congregation of Cardinals

Funeral Ceremony and Attendees

The funeral of Pope Francis took place in St. Peter's Square, following his private burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Hundreds of thousands of people lined the streets to mourn. The service was attended by dozens of heads of state and royal guests, including the Prince of Wales, Saki Starmmer, and President Zalinski. Notably, Pope Francis had also invited prison inmates, migrants, and torture victims.

Funeral Procession and Service

The body of Pope Francis was brought through the basilica in a coffin, accompanied by his miter, pastoral staff (crosia), and a scroll documenting his life and pontificate. The coffin was placed on the ground, as per Pope Francis's request. Cardinal Giovani Batista Ree presided over the mass and delivered the homily, reflecting on Pope Francis's opposition to war, his passion for the environment, and his advocacy for the dignity of migrants.

Example: Cardinal Ree highlighted Pope Francis's first journey to Lampedusa, an island symbolizing the tragedy of migration, and his celebration of mass on the border between Mexico and the United States.

Burial and Tomb

Pope Francis was not buried at St. Peter's like other popes, but at his favorite church, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. More than 150,000 people lined the streets to witness the procession. People from homeless centers and clergy welcomed him at the basilica. His tomb is inscribed with the Latin version of his name, "Franciscus." The tomb opened to the public on Sunday.

Vatican Perspective

Andrea Tonielli, the media editor for the Holy See, described the funeral as a "simple and beautiful ceremony" where the "people of God" took center stage. He noted the presence of representatives from other religions and the meeting between President Trump and President Zalinski, viewing it as a "little miracle" reflecting Pope Francis's cry for peace.

Legacy of Mercy

Tonielli emphasized that Pope Francis's most important legacy is the "magisterium of mercy." He highlighted Pope Francis's vision of a church with open doors, welcoming everyone, a "field hospital and not a customs house," showing tenderness towards the humble, the poor, and sinners.

Quote: "The church is a welcoming home for everyone, everyone." - Pope Francis (repeated during the last World Youth Day)

Future of the Church

The future direction of the church is uncertain. The cardinals will convene to discuss the future of the church, starting with the congregation of cardinals.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is where Pope Francis was laid to rest. Members of the public are now able to visit the basilica to pay their respects at his tomb.