

The funeral of Pope Francis
Apr 25, 2025
Christopher White, Vatican correspondent at the National Catholic Reporter, reflects on the profound global significance of Pope Francis’ funeral. Simon Brook adds insights into the geopolitical reverberations of this event, particularly the implications for UK-EU relations and the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Sophie Monaghan-Coombs highlights cultural events tied to the occasion, discussing the intertwining of diplomacy and art. Together, they weave a narrative rich in legacy and contemporary issues, capturing the essence of a moment that transcends borders.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mixed Emotions in Rome
- Rome's atmosphere during the Pope’s wake mixed solemn prayer and joyful reunion.
- Argentines holding their national flags embraced warmly while mourning together.
Pope's Humble Funeral Planned
- Over 100,000 people are expected for Pope Francis’ funeral, overwhelming St. Peter’s Square.
- His funeral will be simple, reflecting his wish for humility rather than grandeur.
Vatican as Global Crossroads
- Despite complex politics, leaders like Putin and Zelensky met Pope Francis seeking common ground.
- The Vatican acts as a neutral crossroads bringing together unlikely global figures.