LDS Church Sends Delegate to Pope Francis’ Funeral in Vatican City

VATICAN CITY — On Saturday, April 26, 2025, thousands of mourners gathered in Vatican City to honor Pope Francis, whose death earlier in the week on April 21 marked the end of his transformative leadership of the Catholic Church. The funeral service, attended by dignitaries and faithful from around the globe, was a solemn occasion that highlighted the profound influence of the first Latin American pontiff, who led the Church for 12 years.

Pope Francis, born in Argentina, was widely revered for his humility, compassion, and outreach to marginalized communities. His death, occurring on Easter Monday, was a moment of collective grief for millions. The funeral, which took place in St. Peter’s Square, saw an estimated 250,000 attendees, who had traveled to Rome to pay their respects and witness the procession that would carry the pope’s remains from St. Peter’s Square to the Basilica of St. Mary Major.

The ceremony itself was steeped in Catholic tradition, with Holy Communion, Bible readings, and Gregorian chants filling the air. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, delivered the eulogy. Re described Pope Francis as “a pope among the people,” noting his openness and inclusive spirit that transcended geographical and cultural boundaries.

As Pope Francis’ coffin made its way past the iconic Colosseum, it became clear just how deeply his leadership had touched both the Catholic faithful and the broader world. His travels took him to numerous countries, including Iraq, the United States, and Mexico, where he spread messages of peace, tolerance, and compassion. His final public message, delivered the day before his passing, was a reflection of his lifelong commitment to faith and service.

The funeral marked the beginning of a nine-day period of mourning for the Catholic Church, following which a conclave will convene in May to elect the next pope. The mood in Rome was one of both solemn reflection and anticipation for the future of the Church.

Representing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the funeral was Elder Rubén V. Alliaud, a General Authority Seventy and president of the Church’s Europe Central Area, accompanied by his wife, Sister Fabiana Bennett Alliaud. Their presence at the service underscored the deep respect and solidarity between the LDS Church and the Catholic community.

In a statement released by the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Russell M. Nelson, President Dallin H. Oaks, and President Henry B. Eyring expressed their condolences following the pope’s passing. “We join the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis,” the statement read. “His courageous and compassionate leadership has blessed countless lives.”

The First Presidency’s statement also noted Pope Francis’ example of forgiveness and service, drawing parallels between his teachings and the values held by members of the LDS Church. Both President Nelson and President Eyring had met with Pope Francis during his tenure, and their words echoed the sentiments of many who admired his dedication to peace and unity.

As the Vatican City closed its chapter on Pope Francis’ life, the world looked to the future with a sense of gratitude for his leadership and hope for the legacy he leaves behind.