Mass was celebrated at noon and presided by Archbishop Dom Odilo Scherer; In memory of the Pontiff, a meeting was also attended by leaders and representative of Brazilian institutions
Aem it was the scenario of an exciting farewell to gathering a multitude of devotees in a moment of deep reverence and gratitude last Monday (21). The Mass, conducted by Cardinal Dom Odilo Scherer, attracted hundreds of faithful who clustered to pay their honors to the Pontiff. The image of Pope Francis, known for his dedication to the most needy, was revered by many who highlighted his legacy of peace and social justice.
Joeli Camargo, coordinator of the Pastoral of the Minor of the Archdiocese of São Paulo, deeply lamented the loss of the Pope, highlighting his proximity to the poor and excluded. For her, Francisco was a leader who was always with the most vulnerable, promoting concrete actions for social justice. The rector of the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo, Vidal Serrano Nunes Jr, also paid his honor, remembering Francisco’s commitment to ecumenism and his ability to promote dialogue between different religions, something that marked his papacy.
During the Mass, Dom Odílio Scherer thanked the Pope’s life and work, highlighting his reforms and efforts to make the Catholic Church more inclusive. He also mentioned the measures adopted by Francisco to combat denunciations of pedophilia within the church, a sensitive theme that the Pope faced with courage and determination. The Brazilian cardinal said that the next conclave, which will not be dominated by Europeans, will choose a new Pope who will take care of the church with humanity and personality. Dom Odílio and other Brazilian cardinals will participate in the conclave in Rome, where the future of church leadership will be decided.
Father Júlio Lancelotti highlighted Francisco’s role in promoting ruptures and expects the next Pope to continue in this line of modernization and inclusion. Jorge Bergoglio, Pope Francis, symbolically passed away one day after Easter, leaving a legacy of reforms and modernization in the Catholic Church. His departure marks the end of an era of significant transformations, but also the beginning of a new phase for the Church, which will seek to honor and continue the work started by Francis.
*With information from Camila Yunes
*Report produced with the aid of AI
