The pontiff's funeral to be attended by transgender individuals
A meeting of the Pope with transgenders. Photo: Periódico Hoy
About 40 people from "socially vulnerable groups" will participate in the farewell ceremony for Pope Francis before his burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore on April 26, 2025: transgender individuals, migrants, and prisoners, writes Vatican News.
During the ceremony, transgender individuals will stand on the steps of the basilica holding white roses.
Bishop Benoni Ambarus, Secretary of the Commission for Migrations of the Italian Episcopal Conference and delegate for charitable initiatives, called this decision "a moving choice," symbolizing Francis's care for the most vulnerable members of society.
Pope Francis is being received by the Mother he loved so much (Salus Populi Romani) and by his favourite children, who will surround him on this final journey. I think it’s something truly beautiful...,” said Bishop Ambarus.
According to Bishop Ambarus, the invited group of transgender individuals is connected to a small community of Catholic nuns who provide them with spiritual support.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Zelensky and his wife will attend the Pope's funeral.
Read also
Greece signs memorandum on protection of Jerusalem Patriarchate's shrines
Next week, the Greek Parliament will ratify a document on the protection of the cultural heritage of the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
Greek bishop calls imposition of same-sex marriage a threat
Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythera urged families to become a “domestic church” amid threats to the Christian family in Greek laws and school curricula.
Patriarch Bartholomew arrives in Budapest for opening of Orthodox center
The Ecumenical Patriarch has arrived in Hungary, where he will preside over the consecration of the Orthodox center "Phanarion."
OCU raiders stage attack on seized church in Kyiv, media
OCU "hierarch" Serhiy Horobtsov published a provocative post online regarding St. John's Church in Bykivnia seized by his people.