Pope Francis’ Funeral: A Gathering of Global Leaders and Faithful
Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 on April 21, is set to be honored in a significant funeral service at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, comprising not only devoted followers but also numerous world leaders.
Global Attendance
Approximately 130 delegations have confirmed their attendance, which includes around 50 heads of state and at least 10 additional leaders from across the globe. This substantial representation underscores the late pontiff’s influence and stature in international affairs.
United States Representation
Former President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, a practicing Roman Catholic, will attend the service, demonstrating respect despite their occasionally contentious relationship. Former Vice President JD Vance and his wife will not be present, while current President Joe Biden is expected to attend, according to reports from Italian media.
United Kingdom’s Tribute
Prince William will represent the British royal family at the funeral, following in his father King Charles III’s footsteps, who attended Pope John Paul II’s funeral in 2005. British Prime Minister Kier Starmer is also set to be in attendance.
Italy’s Official Presence
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has canceled prior travel plans to participate in the funeral. She expressed her grief on social media, sharing, “I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his advice, his teachings, which never ceased, not even during times of trial and suffering.”
Argentina’s Participation
Javier Milei, the President of Argentina, will make the journey to honor Pope Francis, despite his previous criticism of the pontiff. He remarked, “Despite differences that seem minor today, having been able to know him in his goodness and wisdom was a true honor for me.”
Ireland’s Representation
The Irish nation, known for its Catholic heritage, will be represented by both President Michael Higgins and Prime Minister Leo Varadkar at the funeral service.
Ukraine’s Acknowledgment
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed his attendance, noting the pope’s prayers for peace in Ukraine. Zelenskyy remarked, “We remember his prayers for peace in Ukraine. Our state will be represented in Rome at the farewell ceremony this coming Saturday.”
European Union Attendance
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is also slated to attend the funeral, marking a rare joint appearance with former President Trump since he took office. Although many world leaders are expected, notable absences will include leaders from nations with strained relations with the Vatican, such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping.
Overall, the funeral of Pope Francis is anticipated to be a poignant occasion, uniting a diverse array of leaders and followers in a celebration of his profound impact on faith and global humanitarian efforts.
