Pope Francis Laid to Rest at Rome’s St. Mary Major Basilica After Solemn Vatican Farewell

|Published 2:10 PM ET, Sunday April 27, 2025|

Rome, Italy — In a moment of profound global reflection, Pope Francis was laid to rest today at the historic Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, following an emotional farewell ceremony at the Vatican attended by world leaders, clergy, and thousands of faithful mourners.

The funeral rites, rich in tradition and symbolic gestures, underscored the deep impact of Francis’ papacy, marked by a tireless pursuit of humility, peace, and reform within the Catholic Church. At St. Peter’s Square, solemn hymns echoed as dignitaries, cardinals, and pilgrims from across continents paid their last respects to the pontiff who redefined the modern papal role.

After the Vatican ceremony, the late Pope’s body was transferred to the Basilica of St. Mary Major — a site dear to Francis, where he often prayed before and after his apostolic journeys. His resting place reflects his enduring devotion to the Virgin Mary and his lifelong commitment to service beyond the grandeur of papal tradition.

Tributes continue to pour in from leaders around the world, praising Francis’ legacy as a bridge-builder, an advocate for the marginalized, and a tireless voice for dialogue in an increasingly fractured world. Many believe his final resting place at St. Mary Major will become a lasting pilgrimage site, symbolizing his vision of a Church close to the people.

As Rome mourns and remembers, a new chapter in Catholic history quietly begins — one deeply shaped by the spirit of a pope who called for mercy, unity, and love without borders.

Cardinals visit St Mary Major to pray at the tomb of Pope Francis – ABS-CBN News