Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Humble Ceremony Attended by Global Leaders and Ugandan Delegation
The Pope's decision to be interred at St. Mary Major Basilica underscores his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly the Salus Populi Romani icon, before which he prayed before and after every apostolic journey.
Uganda Today Edition: Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Humble Ceremony Attended by Global Leaders and Ugandan Delegation
Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Humble Ceremony Attended by Global Leaders and Ugandan Delegation VOA News+5Reuters+5The Daily Beast+5
By Uganda Today Staff Writer
VATICAN CITY, April 26, 2025 — In a solemn and historic ceremony, Pope Francis was laid to rest today at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, fulfilling his personal wish to be buried outside the Vatican, close to the icon of the Virgin Mary he revered throughout his papacy.People.com
The funeral Mass, held in St. Peter’s Square, drew over 250,000 mourners, including more than 130 heads of state and dignitaries from around the world. Among the attendees were U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Prince William of the United Kingdom. AP News+2Reuters+2The Daily Beast+2The Daily Beast+2AP News+2Reuters+2
Uganda was represented by a high-level delegation led by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa. The delegation joined other African leaders in paying their final respects to the pontiff, who was widely admired for his commitment to social justice, humility, and interfaith dialogue.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, presided over the Requiem Mass, highlighting Pope Francis’ dedication to the marginalized and his efforts to bring the Church closer to the people. Wikipedia+7AP News+7VOA News+7
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis was buried in a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc, eschewing the traditional triple-coffin burial. His tomb bears only his Latin name, “Franciscus,” reflecting his lifelong commitment to humility and service. The Daily Beast+2Wikipedia+2WJXT+2The Daily Beast+2Reuters+2People.com+2
The Pope’s decision to be interred at St. Mary Major Basilica underscores his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly the Salus Populi Romani icon, before which he prayed before and after every apostolic journey. Reuters+4AP News+4People.com+4
As the Catholic Church enters a period of mourning and reflection, preparations are underway for the upcoming conclave in May, where cardinals will gather to elect the next pope. Pope Francis’ legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and reform is expected to influence the direction of the Church for years to come.
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