Pope Francis (1936–2025): A Gentle Soul and a Giant Empty Space

On April 26, 2025, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis, a gentle soul and a giant empty space worldwide. The first South American pontiff, whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and a commitment to social justice. More than 250,000 mourners gathered at St. Peter’s Basilica, with global dignitaries, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in attendance. ​The Washington Post

A Comparative Look at Papal Funerals

To appreciate the significance of Pope Francis’s funeral, it’s insightful to compare it with those of his predecessors:

• Pope John Paul II (2005): His funeral was one of the largest in history, drawing approximately 4 to 5 million attendees in Rome and watched by an estimated 2 billion people worldwide. ​theTrumpet.com
• Pope Benedict XVI (2023): Opting for a simpler ceremony, his funeral attracted around 50,000 attendees, reflecting his request for a modest farewell. ​The Washington Post

In contrast, Pope Francis’s funeral, with its 250,000 attendees, struck a balance between grandeur and simplicity, mirroring his approach to leadership.​

A Legacy of Humility and Inclusion

The Last Humble Pope, Pope Francis last public appearance was at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, April 20, 2025 where he gave his Final Easter address and called for a ceasefire in Gaza. He died the next day April 21, 2025 at 07:35 local time.

Pope Francis’s decision to be buried at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, rather than the traditional St. Peter’s Basilica, underscores his humility and deep personal devotion. His papacy was characterized by outreach to marginalized communities, advocacy for environmental stewardship, and efforts to bridge divides within the Church and the broader world.​news+1Al Jazeera+1The Irish Sun

When Jorge became Pope Francis in 2013, the world expected business as usual. What they got instead was… a revolution of kindness.

• He chose a small apartment over the Apostolic Palace.
• He drove a Ford Focus, not a limousine.
• He washed the feet of prisoners, kissed the faces of the sick, and welcomed the forgotten.
• He challenged capitalism, fought for climate justice, and asked world leaders to lead with compassion.
• He said, “Who am I to judge?” in reference to LGBTQ+ Catholics—five words that shattered centuries of rigidity.

But this same humility also made him controversial.

Traditionalists grumbled. Conservative factions stirred. Yet Pope Francis kept walking—forward, barefoot in spirit, if not in form.

The Third Narrative: Your Perspective

While historical comparisons provide context, the true measure of Pope Francis’s impact lies in personal reflections. How did his leadership influence your view of the Church? What aspects of his papacy resonated with you? We invite you to share your thoughts and memories in the comments below.​

Further Reading:

• Pope Francis is buried in Rome after funeral attended by 250,000
• Pope Benedict XVI laid to rest as 50,000 pay respects in St Peter’s Square
• The Funeral of Pope John Paul II