Who will lead the funeral of Pope Francis? He has already survived five pontificates
Though Pope Francis He was a spiritual leader for millions of people around the world, his last wishes were extremely personal. In the will, he expressed the desire to rest in a place close to his heart – the Roman basilica to which he pilgrimned. Now, in farewell to this unique pope, a special role will play a man who accompanied the Church for over half a century – Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
Who will lead the funeral of Pope Francis?
Funeral Mass will chair Cardinal Giovanni Battista Redean of the cardinal college. He blessed the casket Pope Benedict XVI In January 2023, currently, as the oldest active purple with an extremely high authority, standing alongside Franciszek’s coffin, in accordance with tradition and own liturgical experience.
Although the Cardinal RE is 90 years old, he still performs one of the key functions in the church. His presence during Sede Vacante – the period between death and the choice of a new pope – cannot be overestimated.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. A priest with influence and history
Born in 1934 in Borno, a small town in Lombardia, RE was associated with the Vatican from the beginning of his priestly road. He worked in nunciatures in Panama and Iran, and from the 1970s he was active in the Secretariat of State. In the years 1989–2000 he was its substitute, and then managed the Congregation for Bishops.
He belonged to the closest associates of Pope John Paul II. In 1998 he invited him to his hometown Borno – this event enrolled in local history as a unique gesture of papal kindness.
Report with Francis. Respect despite the differences
Although Francis and Cardinal RE did not always agree in their views, the Pope valued him for experience and honesty. Despite the age of RE, he was the one who replaced the pope with many liturgies, when the health of the Holy Father did not allow him to chair the celebrations.
Cardinal RE will not take part in the conclave due to the exceeding of the 80 years. His role as the dean of the Cardinal College will be crucial in preparation for conclave. He will convene cardinals, lead the Congregations of the General and say goodbye to the deceased Holy Father during the last sermon before starting the conclave.
Cardinal For decades he was a leading figure in the Vatican corridors. In December 2023, Francis thanked him for his « energy » and « constant commitment », emphasizing that few clergy at his age show such activity.
