Pope Francis will be laid to rest in St. Peter's Basilica after three days of public mourning. The first Latin American pontiff died at 88 following a stroke, ending a remarkable 12-year papacy dedicated to the marginalized. A conclave will soon convene to choose his successor, with the funerals set for Saturday, attended by world leaders. Notable remembrances from Vatican officials highlight Francis’ dedication to his flock and commitment to reforming the church's focus on its mission to help the poorest.
"He truly gave everything he had, up to the end," said Sister Nathalie Becquart, one of the highest-ranking women at the Vatican. It captures the essence of his dedication.
Speaking to reporters after she paid her respects, Becquart marveled at Francis' final Easter salute to his flock. 'He really walked with his people,' she said.
Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi said it was specifically Francis' effort to promote recovery and care for the poorest that reshaped the papal mission during his tenure.
His Easter appearance from the same loggia where he was introduced to the world as the first pope from the Americas on March 13, 2013, was a fitting bookend.
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