Thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square to mourn the passing of Pope Francis, whose funeral was attended by cardinals, royals, and global leaders. Pope Francis was remembered for his compassion and support for the marginalized, with many mourners viewing him as a personal figure in their lives. The diverse crowd, dressed in various cultural attires, paid tribute to his legacy, which emphasized charity and pastoral work. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re highlighted the Pope’s dedication to the marginalized, referencing his significant visit to Lampedusa, a symbol of the migrant crisis. As the ceremony concluded, attendees reflected on the future of the Church and who might carry forward Francis' advocacy for the voiceless and marginalized communities.

Pope Francis' funeral in Vatican City's St. Peter's Square drew a large, diverse crowd, including cardinals, royalty, and heads of state, reflecting his global influence and the personal connection many felt with him.

Mourners, some of whom spent the night on the streets, included people from marginalized communities who saw Pope Francis as a fatherly figure who vocally supported immigrants, exemplified by his first papal trip to Lampedusa.

The funeral featured a Mass with readings in multiple languages, and the atmosphere was both solemn and grand, enhanced by large screens and a sound system that brought the distant ceremony closer to the attendees.

Among the mourners were individuals from countries Pope Francis had reached out to during his papacy, many of whom felt he was a relatable figure and appreciated his focus on social issues over strict adherence to church doctrine.

The ceremony was marked by emotional moments, such as applause for President Volodymyr Zelensky and reflections on the Pope's coffin, underscoring the personal and political significance of the event.

As the funeral concluded, attendees began to consider the future of the Church, with some expressing concern about who would continue Francis' mission of championing the marginalized.

The event ended with a solemn dispersal of the crowd, leaving an eerie silence in the previously bustling piazza, as attendees reflected on the Pope's impact and the challenges ahead for the Church.