Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, was known for his advocacy for the marginalized during his papacy. Shortly after his election in 2013, he expressed a desire for a church that serves the poor. His funeral, scheduled for Saturday, will see a group of "poor and needy" individuals waiting at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, reflecting his commitment to this cause.
Among those paying respects was Sister Geneviève Jeanningros, who had previously lived in a camper serving the needy. Her emotional response to the pope's passing resonated with many. Francis also supported the transformation of a Vatican post office into a free medical clinic for the homeless and undocumented migrants, which has been operational since 2018 and serves approximately 100 patients daily.
Additional facilities, such as showers for the homeless, were set up near the clinic, although they were temporarily closed due to the influx of visitors paying tribute to Francis. The homeless continue to find shelter under the colonnade of St. Peter's Square, utilizing tents provided by the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, which Francis empowered during his tenure.
In 2019, he inaugurated a shelter for about 50 individuals behind the Basilica, reinforcing his focus on aiding the poor both in Rome and globally. This commitment included visits to prisons and support for humanitarian efforts, such as sending aid to Ukraine.
Concerns have been raised by some, including charity leaders, about whether his successor will maintain the same priorities regarding poverty and social issues. Francis's influence extended to creating contemporary art installations that reflect his inclusive vision, including a recent sculpture titled "Be Welcoming," which emphasizes the importance of hospitality.
Critics have expressed skepticism about the modern artworks placed near the historic colonnade, but supporters argue that they align with the essence of the Gospels. Francis's approach to integrating contemporary art with traditional settings exemplifies his commitment to social justice and compassion.