Huge crowds attend Pope Francis' funeral, thousands gather globally for memorials

Pope Francis, the Catholic Church's first Latin American leader known for his humility and focus on the marginalized, was laid to rest in Rome, drawing hundreds of thousands of mourners and global dignitaries to his funeral at St. Peter's Square. His tomb at St. Mary Major Basilica has since opened to the public, with large crowds paying their respects and attending memorial Masses worldwide. Parishioners and Church leaders have highlighted his legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and advocacy for the poor, recalling both his personal humility and his efforts to reform the Church. The period of official mourning is underway, after which cardinals will convene for a conclave to elect a new pope, amid reflections on the unique challenges this transition brings in the digital age. Cardinal Pietro Parolin and other close collaborators have expressed both grief and hope, calling on the faithful to continue Francis's mission of mercy and outreach. Observers note that Francis's papacy left a lasting impact, inspiring Catholics to build a more welcoming and just Church.