### Funeral of Pope Francis: a Memento Morii for a troubled era
On April 25, 2025, the Vatican Saint-Pierre Basilica was amazed at the influx of enthusiastic crowds, paying tribute to a man who marked the Catholic church and the world, Pope Francis. His death, at the age of 88, occurred one day in Easter, a coincidence which adds a spiritual dimension to a day already loaded with emotions. The funeral, expected by more than 200,000 people, promise not only as a farewell to a religious leader, but also as a reflection on the many challenges of our time.
## Events and reactions
The influx of the faithful, including representatives of different countries and confessions, testifies to the universal scope of the work of Pope Francis. His pastoral letter affected millions of hearts, pleading for peace, social justice and the reception of migrants. This last aspect is particularly significant in a world where questions of migration, national identity and belonging are more divisive than ever. According to several observers, this allowed the Pope to become a very respected moral figure, far beyond the Catholic borders.
In a context where inter-religious dialogue is often undermined by political and cultural tensions, the presence of such a high number of heads of state and crowned heads highlights the central role that François played in world diplomacy. In this sense, one can wonder about the scope of these funeral: do they constitute an occlusion to a certain political cynicism, or are they, on the contrary, a validation?
### Security and organizational dimension
Security measures, described as draconian, are a reflection of contemporary geopolitical issues. The Vatican gendarmerie and the Italian armed forces ensure that the course of this event is done in the greatest calm. The implementation of sophisticated security checks, such as the presence of elite shooters, illustrates although even in the sacred sphere, the weight of the modern world, with its safety concerns, is felt.
One might wonder if these measures are not likely to create a distance between the faithful and the spiritual experience that these funeral should embody. The extreme polarization, observed both in public and private space, raises the question of the capacity of the Church to remain accessible to all, including those which come up against obstacles to access the sacred.
### Meetings and exchanges: Towards a new global ethics?
The potential meetings between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky1. In a world where dialogue is often broken by political crises, could this Church provide a framework to build bridges between peoples, bring light into the darkness of their differences?
The funeral of Pope Francis, while being a moment of meditation, also promises to be a catalyst potential for dialogues. The presence of a diversity of political leaders raises the question of the collective responsibility which results from it. Can we consider that this event generates a common reflection on major societal challenges, whether it be peace, social justice or environmental protection, three themes dear to the deceased Pope?
### A inheritance to crown
Expectations for the conclave to elect his successor are also adorned with crucial issues. Who will be ready to wear this inheritance? What direction will the Catholic church choose to borrow from a changing world? Debates around immigration, globalization and social justice are not about to go out and require a strong voice and a renewed vision.
The figure of Pope Francis remains emblematic, both by his actions and by his human approach and accessible. He was able to bring together communities often in conflict. The path that opens with the designation of a new pontiff promises to be just as crucial for our common future.
In conclusion, while the world is preparing to say goodbye to one of the most influential leaders of its time, it is essential to examine this event as an opportunity for collective introspection. The questions raised by his funeral, as well as the spiritual and moral heritage he leaves behind, are all challenges and possibilities for the future. Perhaps, through the memory of Pope Francis, we could consider not only an old but New Adına, but also a potential change in our way of interacting with each other, both individual and collective.