Pope Francis' Final Journey: Coffin Moved from St. Peter's Basilica

The Final Journey Begins

• 🕊️ Pope Francis' coffin is being moved from St. Peter's Basilica, marking the beginning of his funeral service.
• ✝️ The procession is led by a priest carrying a cross, a tradition for Catholic funerals, but with added grandeur.
• 🙏 The pallbearers, known as the gentile warm, are those who were close to the Pope in his daily duties.

A Moment of Gratitude and Reflection

• 👏 Crowds in St. Peter's Square offer applause, a gesture of gratitude and appreciation for Pope Francis' life and work.
• 😔 The mood is somber when the applause ceases, with many reflecting on his legacy and praying for his soul.
• 💖 The term "the people's pope" is frequently used, reflecting his desire for a "poor church for the poor" and bringing the church to a street level.

Pope Francis' Legacy of Compassion

• 🌍 His commitment to the marginalized, including migrants and the homeless, is highlighted by his first trip outside the Vatican to a migrant center.
• 🤝 Sister Norma Pimentel of Catholic Charities in the Rio Grande emphasizes how Pope Francis made people feel seen and understood, connecting with them on a deep, soulful level.

A Basilica of Significance

• 📍 The Basilica of St. Mary Major is a significant location for Pope Francis, visited over a hundred times for prayer before and after apostolic journeys.
• 📖 He chose a simple tomb in a niche near an important chapel behind the candelabras as his final resting place, as detailed in his writings.
• 📺 People are gathering along the streets and watching on huge screens to witness the proceedings, showing a widespread connection to the Pope.