Pope Francis Funeral Draws 40,000 in Vatican City

Pope Francis' funeral drew massive crowds to Vatican City, with world leaders and millions globally reflecting on his legacy as a moral and progressive voice who championed compassion for immigrants, the poor, and marginalized groups, while denouncing war, climate change, and exclusionary politics. His humility, unifying efforts among different faiths, and outreach to LGBTQ individuals were widely lauded, making him an admired figure even beyond the Catholic Church. Despite his popularity, Francis faced criticism from conservative and far-right figures, especially for his stances against populist nationalism and his push for a more inclusive church. While many mourned his passing and credited him with renewing faith in religious leadership, others—particularly some traditionalists and right-wing commentators—expressed harsh opposition, highlighting ongoing divisions within and outside the Church. The response to his death underscored both his impact as a global leader and the challenges facing organized religion in an increasingly secular and polarized world. Security concerns and incidents of petty crime also accompanied the large gatherings for his funeral.