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A moment of great sadness for the world
The news of the death of Pope Francis, which occurred on Monday, April 21 at 7.35:XNUMX in the morning due to a stroke, has deeply affected the faithful and not only. The figure of the Pontiff, known for his commitment to the weakest and for his openness to interreligious dialogue, has left an indelible mark on the history of the Catholic Church and in the hearts of millions of people.
The funeral, scheduled for Saturday, April 26 at 10 a.m., promises to be a major event, attracting thousands of people from all over the world.
An extraordinary influx of faithful
St. Peter's Basilica saw an unprecedented turnout, with thousands of faithful queuing to pay homage to the Pope. The Vatican press office reported that, in the first 24 hours, over 61.000 people visited the basilica to greet the Pontiff. This extraordinary influx is a testament to the affection and devotion that the people have for Francis, who chose his name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, a symbol of humility and love for the poor.
A funeral marked by sobriety and dignity
The funeral of Pope Francis will feature a funeral procession that will wind from St. Peter's to Santa Maria Maggiore, where the burial will take place. This route, chosen to allow the faithful to greet the Pope, will be at walking pace, thus ensuring a moment of reflection and respect. The presence of a group of poor and needy people, who will welcome the Pope's body, underscores the importance that Francis has always given to the most vulnerable. The Holy See has announced that the burial will be a private event, but that it will be possible to follow the funeral procession live on television.
Participation of world leaders and international delegations
The funeral of Pope Francis will not only be a religious event, but also an important opportunity for world leaders to meet. Representatives of various states are expected, including the President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and the President of Croatia, Zoran Milanovic. The presence of these prominent figures highlights the central role the Pope has played in promoting peace and social justice globally. The participation of migrants and refugees, who have had a special relationship with the Pontiff, will further enrich this moment of commemoration.
A legacy that continues
The death of Pope Francis marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who followed his teaching. His attention to social issues, the fight against poverty and commitment to peace will remain a beacon for future generations. The Pope's tomb, which will be open to visitors from the morning of Sunday 27 April, will become a place of pilgrimage for all those who wish to honor his memory and his message of love and compassion.