Discover the Stunning Images of Pope Francis’ Tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore Church

Images of Pope Francis’s tomb at the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome have emerged. A white rose rests on the stone, marked with the name he was known by during his time as pope, illuminated by a single light.

Pope Francis was buried here, a place he often visited, following a private ceremony after his public funeral in the Vatican. Thousands of people have come to pay their respects since the church opened its doors. Many mourners, like Rosario Correale, found it deeply emotional, saying, "He really left a mark on us." Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska shared a similar sentiment, commenting that the pope’s simple resting place reflected his humble nature.

Santa Maria Maggiore, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, has stood since the 4th century. It’s located near the Colosseum and bustling Termini station, a significant distance from where popes are typically laid to rest. Yet, Francis expressed his desire to be buried here back in 2022, feeling a strong connection to the Virgin Mary. This choice surprised many. Pilgrim Amaya Morris remarked, "It’s really humbling to be able to be here."

Pope Francis’s funeral was a grand event attended by monarchs, heads of state, and thousands of Catholics who filled the streets leading to the Vatican. Hymns resonated through the air, accompanied by the distant hum of helicopters. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re delivered a touching homily, underscoring the pope’s message: "Build bridges, not walls."

An unexpected highlight of the occasion was a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aimed at discussing ongoing conflicts. Pope Francis often advocated for peace during his papacy, and this meeting magnified his legacy.

As Pope Francis’s coffin was slowly carried through Rome, around 140,000 people lined the streets, waving and clapping. The procession moved past iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Altare della Patria.

Looking ahead, the selection of the next pope is on the horizon. While a specific date hasn’t been set, the conclave could start as early as early May, with 135 cardinals expected to attend, marking one of the largest gatherings in recent history.

For more insights on the significance of Pope Francis’s choices and the future of the papacy, you might find this BBC article helpful.

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