Maia Sandu Honors Pope Francis

President Maia Sandu, who attended the funeral of Pope Francis, praised the late Pontiff for his role as a bridge between people, religions, and nations. Speaking on behalf of the citizens of Moldova, she honored Pope Francis for dedicating his life to promoting compassion, equity, and solidarity, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES

The funeral, held on Saturday at the Vatican, was attended by world leaders and tens of thousands of people. The procession began with the coffin being carried into St. Peter's Square, where it was met by a standing ovation. Approximately 250,000 people gathered in the square and surrounding areas to pay their respects.

Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, was known for his humility and deep commitment to reform within the Catholic Church. His legacy includes significant works such as the 2015 encyclical Laudato si, which focused on the climate crisis, and his efforts to foster unity among various religious groups. He was also recognized for his historic apologies to survivors of sexual abuse by clergy.

The burial was a private ceremony, with the Vatican announcing that visitors could pay their respects at Pope Francis's tomb in the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica starting April 27.