Rome, 26 April 2025
Tens of thousands of people gathered in Vatican City today to say a final goodbye to Pope Francis, remembering him as a leader who spent his life building bridges and bringing people together.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who led the funeral service at St PeterтАЩs Basilica, spoke warmly of the late Pope, saying he “touched minds and hearts” and worked tirelessly to unite a divided world.
The funeral drew major figures from across the globe, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Prince William. About 50,000 mourners packed into St PeterтАЩs Square, while an estimated 200,000 people were present around Vatican City.
Before the service, Trump and Zelensky met briefly inside St PeterтАЩs Basilica. Ukraine later shared a photo of their meeting, and the White House called their 15-minute conversation “very productive.” The two leaders are expected to meet again later today.
After the mass, the PopeтАЩs coffin began a slow, solemn journey from the Vatican to Santa Maria Maggiore, a historic church in the heart of Rome where he will be laid to rest. The 6-kilometer route crosses the Tiber River, passes the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia, and winds through RomeтАЩs historic center.
Although the public isnтАЩt allowed to walk directly behind the procession, thousands lined the streets to pay their respects. Around 3,000 volunteers were stationed along the way to offer help, water, and medical support to the crowds.
The final burial ceremony inside Santa Maria Maggiore will be private, but many are already gathering outside, eager to honor a Pope who inspired millions with his message of hope, compassion, and unity.
Viewers in the UK can watch live coverage on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, or listen via the BBC World Service.
Here is the link to watch live: https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c62jldpz9wyt#player
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