28 April 2025, 12:37

By Shelagh Fogarty

Pope Francis’ final journey from St Peter’s by road to the smaller church of Santa Maria Maggiore represented the two poles of his papacy.

The spectacular grandeur of the Vatican was the inevitable backdrop for the Requiem Mass of the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics. At the heart of the service is the Mass itself and Catholics worldwide would recognise its rhythms and content.

Those of us who witnessed it were treated to a feast for the eyes and ears.

Deep blue skies, the red and purple cassocks of the cardinals and bishops, and the soaring beauty from the choir of St Peter’s.

Political intrigue too as leaders from around the globe filed onto the square as directed. Catholic royals in the first tier, other royals second then, perhaps a lesson in humility, political........

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