Vatican tribute to Francis: He gave himself until last day

ANSA, Philippine News Agency

Pope Francis, who died Monday at the age of 88, made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, addressing the faithful from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. (Pexels Photo)

VATICAN CITY – Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, paid tribute to Pope Francis’ unwavering spirit of sacrifice in his homily at the late pontiff’s funeral in St Peter’s Square on Saturday.

“Despite his final fragility and suffering, Pope Francis chose to walk the path of self-giving until the last day of his earthly life,” Cardinal Re said during the homily attended by thousands of mourners, including world leaders.

“He followed in the footsteps of his Lord, the Good Shepherd, who loved his sheep to the point of giving his own life for them. And he did so with strength and serenity, remaining close to his flock, the Church of God.

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Pope Francis, who died Monday at the age of 88, made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, addressing the faithful from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

“In spiritual union with all of Christendom, we gather here to pray for Pope Francis, that God may receive him into the immensity of His love,” Re added.

He recalled how Pope Francis often ended his speeches and meetings with a simple request: “Do not forget to pray for me.”

“Now, dear Pope Francis, we ask you to pray for us,” Cardinal Re said. “From heaven, bless the Church, bless Rome, bless the whole world, as you did in your final embrace from this Basilica, reaching out not only to God’s people but to all humanity seeking truth and hope.

” (ANSA)