Funeral Homily for Pope Francis by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re

Homily by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re

• 🕊️ Cardinal Re delivered the homily at the funeral Mass for Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square, remembering him as a "pope of the people" and a pastor with an "open heart towards everyone."
• 💖 The Cardinal noted the profound impact of Pope Francis's pontificate, evidenced by the outpouring of affection following his passing.
• 🌟 The final public image of Pope Francis, giving his Easter Sunday blessing despite health issues, was highlighted as a lasting memory.

Pope Francis's Pastoral Mission

• 🐑 Inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, Pope Francis adopted a pastoral plan focused on direct contact with individuals and peoples, especially the marginalized.
• ⛪ He sought to be a "home for all, a home with its doors always open," likening the church to a "field hospital" to care for the wounded and those in difficulty.
• 🌍 His pontificate was guided by evangelization and a missionary vision, spreading the "joy of the gospel" and emphasizing mercy.

Key Themes of His Pontificate

• 🤝 Pope Francis consistently advocated for the poor, refugees, and displaced persons, with his first journey to Lampedusa symbolizing the tragedy of immigration.
• 🕊️ He championed interreligious dialogue, undertaking significant journeys to places like Iraq and the UAE, signing a document on human fraternity.
• 🌍 The encyclical Laudato Si' drew attention to shared responsibility for the planet, our "common home."
• 💔 In the face of war, Pope Francis incessantly implored peace, advocating for negotiation and reminding the world that "war always leaves the world worse."

Legacy and Final Farewell

• 💖 The Cardinal emphasized Pope Francis's commitment to the service of love, following Christ's example as the "good shepherd."
• 🙏 Pope Francis's final message, "Do not forget to pray for me," was recalled, with the Cardinal now asking the late Pope to pray for the Church and the world from heaven.
• 🌍 The homily concluded with a blessing for the Church, Rome, and the whole world, mirroring Pope Francis's final embrace with humanity.