Rome saw an outpouring of devotion on April 27, 2025, as hundreds of cardinals and thousands of faithful gathered at the Basilica of St. Mary Major to honor the late Pope Francis. His resting place in the Marian basilica marks the final chapter of a papacy deeply rooted in humility and connection to the people of Rome.
A Grand Entrance for the Cardinals
Three large buses rolled up to the bustling square in front of the basilica, delivering a group of about 110 cardinals. The scene was chaotic yet orderly—security adjusted barricades, media scrambled to capture the moment, and crowds of eager onlookers awaited the church’s visitors.
The cardinals, ranging from familiar figures to lesser-known clerics, disembarked with poise, many of them greeted with cheers from onlookers. As the cardinals ascended the steps toward the basilica, cameras clicked, capturing their every move.
While the media clamored, some cardinals took a moment to wave or nod at the crowd. Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, retired archbishop of Vienna, even went so far as to step closer to the barricades, engaging with the faithful and posing for photos. His gesture was met with cheers from the crowd.
The Public Responds: A Tribute to Pope Francis
By 7 a.m., the doors of the basilica were open to the public. 30,000 people—and counting—had visited the basilica in just the first six hours, according to local authorities. The line to enter stretched around the church and down the square, with some visitors waiting patiently for up to three hours.
For many, this visit was deeply personal. Pope Francis, known for his devotion to Mary and commitment to being close to the people of Rome, chose this Marian basilica as his final resting place. This decision defied tradition, as most popes are buried in St. Peter’s Basilica. His tomb, nestled within the basilica, is now a symbol of his ministry—a ministry focused on accessibility, humility, and service to all.
Visitors spent moments of quiet reflection at the tomb, while others lit candles, some of which were inscribed with heartfelt messages.
Vespers Service: A Solemn Moment of Prayer
The cardinals, gathered for a solemn vespers service, prayed at Pope Francis’ tomb. The service was presided over by Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, the coadjutor archpriest of the basilica. The crowd inside the basilica was quiet, a stark contrast to the bustling square outside.
The service allowed the cardinals to offer their respects, not just to the pope, but also to one another. As they stood together, the significance of the occasion weighed heavily on everyone present.
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Several cardinals took time to converse with reporters and visitors after the service, sharing memories of the late pope.
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Others, deeply moved, remained in prayer long after the service ended.
A Day of Unity and Devotion
The day at St. Mary Major was more than a ceremonial event. It was a chance for the faithful to remember a pope who had profoundly impacted the Catholic Church and the world at large. His death, while a time of mourning, also became a moment for reflection on his legacy of compassion, love for the poor, and deep spiritual devotion.
As the crowd began to disperse, many left with a renewed sense of connection to the church and the teachings of Pope Francis. His choice to rest at St. Mary Major was not just a testament to his faith, but a final act of humility.
