Pope Francis’ funeral live updates: Hundreds of thousands of mourners to watch Vatican procession
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Pope Francis Laid to Rest at Rome's St. Mary Major Basilica
Above: A Catholic nun prays during a Requiem Mass in honor of Pope Francis on April 25, 2025. Image copyright: Luis Tato/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Progressive narrative
Francis transformed the Catholic Church through unprecedented reforms, championing inclusivity by welcoming divorced believers, blessing same-sex couples, and advocating for migrants and the poor. Widely hailed as a pastor with a missionary vision, he envisioned a community that listens, serves, and walks with those in need, reflecting the love of Christ. Under his guidance, the Church embraced diversity and fostered unity across global cultures.
Conservative narrative
The late pontiff's reforms were met with concern by many faithful Catholics who valued the Church’s timeless teachings and traditions. While his emphasis on compassion and social issues resonated with some, others felt that his approach risked blurring doctrinal clarity and undermining established moral principles. His progressive stance on key matters sparked unease about the potential impact on the Church’s enduring mission, leaving many questioning the path his successor might take.