Image: Simone Risoluti/Vatican Media/AP/DPA/Picture Alliance
Monday could be established as the day for the meeting to select Francis’s successor after a new cardinal meeting.
Starting this Sunday (27.04.2025), faithful followers and curious onlookers alike will have the unique opportunity to visit the tomb of Pope Francis in Rome. This occurs in the wake of a significant farewell ceremony held the previous day, leaving many pondering a crucial question: who will take the place of the first religious leader from Latin America?
The ecclesiastical administration has consistently maintained that the funeral of the Jesuit from Argentina would precede the convocation of a secret meeting to discuss the next steps. With that said, Monday is anticipated to be the day of the conclave, where cardinals will convene to elect his successor following a recent gathering.
As this pivotal moment approaches for the Catholic Church, visitors and numerous pilgrims who have flocked to Rome for the remembrance of Carlo Acutis, the first Millennium Saint, will be afforded a chance to gather in front of Francis’s tomb. This convergence represents not just a moment of reflection, but also a community coming together during a time of transition.
Approximately 400,000 individuals participated in the funeral the prior day at the Vatican, accompanying the procession of the Pope’s body through the streets of Rome on its final journey to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Here, he was laid to rest in a private space, attended closely by clergy and family members. The festive mood was beautifully complemented by the spring sun, which enhanced the solemnity of the ceremonies, intertwining them with powerful, heartfelt sentiments.
As we witness these historical moments, the significance of Pope Francis’s impact as a leader extends beyond just the rituals associated with his passing. His legacy will likely influence the future direction of the Church and its congregations across the globe for generations to come.
The gatherings around his grave will not only serve as a form of tribute but also highlight the interconnectedness of the Catholic community during this transformative period. Many visitors are expected to reflect on his messages of peace, compassion, and inclusivity, principles that he has championed throughout his papacy.
In this time of contemplation and anticipation, as the Church prepares for its next chapter, the coming days promise to be pivotal in shaping the future leadership and vision of the papacy.
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