The World Unites in Farewell to Pope Francis
As the world bid its final farewell to Pope Francis, a diverse array of people came together with a shared vision of a brighter future.
Written by Paolo Ruffini
Everyone. Absolutely everyone. That was the scene today in St. Peter’s Square, overflowing with individuals who came to pay their respects to Pope Francis. The Square was so packed that there was barely any space left. The Via della Conciliazione leading to the Square, the surrounding streets, and the path to St. Mary Major were all teeming with people. Every single person was there, every single one. Just as Pope Francis had reiterated countless times from World Youth Day to his final Easter message: “Happy Easter to all.”
Among the crowd were the elderly and children, even infants only a few months old, brought by their parents to witness a momentous occasion in the earliest days of their lives.
Many teenagers were also present, not much older than the infants, seemingly drawn by a force beyond themselves and us, to carry on the torch of faith from a Pope who spoke their language and inspired them to believe, to hope, to dream, to demonstrate that living in peace and progressively building a better world is indeed achievable. They witnessed firsthand that hope, which led them to the Jubilee, transcends death.
The multitude of priests concelebrated the event, along with bishops, cardinals, and baptized laypeople, all reaffirming their faith.
Among the attendees were the world’s powerful figures, the wealthy, as well as the less fortunate, all reflecting on the legacy of Pope Francis and contemplating the future. Non-believers and followers of other faiths were present as well, along with friends and foes.
Listening intently to Peter’s words: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him. As for the word that He sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all)…”
Recalling Cardinal Re’s homily, everyone reflected on Pope Francis’ teachings about peace, the futility of war, the brotherhood we often overlook, the importance of realizing that no one can be saved alone, and the Church as a welcoming sanctuary for all.
Under a clear sky, the profound connection that unites all of humanity, the people of God, in a single embrace was unveiled in a mysterious manner. It was a tangible possibility, witnessed by all, like a temporary truce for a special day of celebration. A day where the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary were honored, transforming sorrow into song, and commemorating both death and life, death and resurrection together.
This sentiment was echoed by the spontaneous applause in front of the coffin, a gesture of farewell rather than a final goodbye. It signified a collective commitment that involves everyone, with no exceptions.
