Vatican City: Today, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis in a solemn funeral, marking the end of his nearly 12-year tenure as a leader who championed humanitarian values and principles. The Vatican became the focal point for people worldwide, uniting them in mourning as of 10:00 AM Rome time.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Lebanon's President, General Joseph Aoun, and First Lady Nemat Aoun were among the approximately 170 world leaders, dignitaries, and international figures who gathered at the Vatican to pay their respects. The funeral honored a man celebrated for fostering fraternal relations across various sects and denominations and advocating for humanity wherever it faced oppression, persecution, or the aftermath of conflicts.
The ceremony commenced with the Pope's coffin being brought in amidst applause from those present. As requested by the late Pope, his modest coffin was positioned before the altar between the statues of Saints Peter and Paul the Apostle.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, led the ceremony and delivered a homily highlighting the late Pope's dedication to the people and his unwavering stance against injustice and war. He recalled the Pope's efforts to follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, notably signing a significant document with Muslims in the UAE to promote unity and strengthen fraternal bonds.
During the funeral, President Aoun engaged in discussions and exchanged greetings with leaders from countries including Jordan, France, Italy, Greece, Liechtenstein, and Lithuania, reflecting the global presence at the ceremony.