The leader of the Roman Catholic Church was laid to rest last Saturday at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome in Italy.
Late pontiff, Pope Francis who served as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church from March 2013 until his demise early this week, has been laid to rest. He was buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome in Italy last Saturday April 26. The ceremony was attended by religious and political leaders from across the globe. President Paul Biya of Cameroon was represented by the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis passed away on Monday last week at the age of 88. Despite declining health in recent years, Pope Francis remained active until shortly before his death. He had been hospitalized on February 14 at Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic for bronchitis, a recurring ailment exacerbated by a lifetime of respiratory issues. At age 21, he had a lung partially removed and frequently battled lung infections and pleurisy.
Even amidst illness, the Pope remained visible to the public. On Easter Sunday, he surprised the faithful by riding through St. Peter’s Square in the popemobile, smiling and blessing the crowds, although he delegated the Easter Mass to Cardinal Angelo Comastri due to breathing difficulties. A week earlier, he presided over an outdoor Mass but had aides read his homilies aloud. Francis’s death marks the end of a significant era.
He led the Church during a time of scandal and division, attempting to reorient it towards mercy, humility, and inclusion. He succeeded Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013, becoming the first pontiff in nearly six centuries to do so. The Vatican then housed two popes for nearly a decade. The Church enters a period of mourning before the next papal conclave. Cardinal Farrell will oversee the interregnum and preparations for the election of Francis’s successor, following Vatican protocol.
Flags at the Vatican and Catholic institutions worldwide are flying at half-staff. His last public appearance was on Easter Sunday, when, after a month of convalescence, he wished the Christian community a Happy Easter in person. World leaders and millions of people have paid tribute to Pope Francis. Leaders from various countries and faiths have expressed their condolences. They praised his commitment to social justice and compassion Many have remembered his tireless efforts to promote peace and understanding. Tributes pour in from around the world, honoring his legacy.
