Ashley Noronha Reflects from Rome on the Funeral of Pope Francis

In a moving broadcast from Morning Air, host John Morales and Rome Correspondent Ashley Noronha reflected on the funeral of Pope Francis, a bittersweet farewell that drew the Universal Church and leaders from around the world to the heart of Rome.

John described a stunning scene: over 250,000 people packed into St. Peter’s Square, with another 150,000 filling the surrounding streets. The funeral Mass, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, culminated in the final commendation entrusting Pope Francis to the Blessed Mother’s intercession. It was a moment of unity, reverence, and deep prayer.

Reporting live from Rome, Ashley captured the beauty and emotion of the day from her vantage point atop the Bernini colonnade. Despite the massive crowds, the atmosphere was peaceful and sacred. Confessions were being heard under the colonnades. Rosaries were prayed. “The Church,” she said, “was fully alive.”

One unforgettable moment: the simple wooden coffin, topped with the Book of the Gospels, its pages fluttering in the breeze—an image that gave Ashley chills.

As the funeral concluded, Pope Francis’ motorcade traced a moving path through the Eternal City, passing sites central to his life and ministry:

• The Colosseum, where he once led Good Friday services
• Church of the Gesù, home of St. Ignatius, founder of the Jesuits
• St. John Lateran, his cathedral as Bishop of Rome
• St. Mary Major, where the homeless waved white roses, a fitting tribute to the Pope of the Poor

Ashley shared how church bells tolled across Rome, a mournful and sacred soundtrack to a day of global prayer. Pope Francis was laid to rest at St. Mary Major, in a simple grave marked only with the name “Franciscus.” No grandeur, just humility, just as he lived.

Ashley closed by reminding listeners that she continues to carry your prayers to Rome’s sacred places, serving as Relevant Radio’s eyes and heart on the ground in this historic moment.

Pope Francis, pray for us.

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At this pivotal moment in our Church history, don’t just observe the conclave – understand it, experience it, and pray through it with Relevant Radio at Conclave2025.com.