Reflections on attending Pope Francis’ funeral: Senator Loffreda
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Photo caption: From left, Cardinal Francis Leo of Canada, Senator Tony Loffreda, and Canadian cardinals Michael Czerny and Gérald Lacroix.
In the heart of Rome, beneath the solemn skies and among the timeless stones of St. Peter’s Basilica, I had the immense honour of representing Canada as part of the official delegation at the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis.
This was not only a moment of profound personal reflection, but also a powerful reminder of the global impact of a man who embodied peace, humility and dialogue. Amidst the silence and prayers of millions, we bid farewell to a shepherd who devoted his life to lifting the marginalized, healing divisions and reminding the world that compassion must walk hand-in-hand with faith.
Our Canadian delegation, led with grace and distinction by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, was a testament to the deep respect and admiration Canada holds for the Holy Father and the Holy See. We were joined by our outstanding ambassadors, Her Excellency Joyce Napier, Ambassador to the Holy See, and Her Excellency Elissa Golberg, Ambassador to Italy, as well as the Honourable Raymonde Gagné, Speaker of the Senate. Their leadership and presence during this historic and emotional moment made me proud to be Canadian.
The atmosphere throughout the Vatican was filled with a dignified sorrow, but also a sense of enduring hope — the very hope Pope Francis championed throughout his pontificate. His moral clarity, unwavering humility and steadfast dedication to dialogue across faiths and nations inspired countless individuals, transcending borders, religions and generations.
Following the funeral, Ambassador Napier hosted a meaningful reception at her official residence. The reception provided a unique opportunity for reflection and fellowship among those who had gathered from all corners of the globe. I am grateful for her warm hospitality and for fostering an environment where we could honour the Holy Father’s memory and share the ways in which his legacy touched each of our lives.
As I stood in St. Peter’s Square, surrounded by thousands of mourners — heads bowed, hands clasped in silent prayer — I was struck by the universality of Pope Francis’s message. His unwavering call for unity, justice, service and love resonated far beyond the Vatican walls. In an increasingly divided world, his voice was a beacon, urging us to find common ground and to lead with compassion and humility.
Canada’s values — equality, respect for human rights, diversity and a strong commitment to democracy and social justice — align deeply with the legacy Pope Francis leaves behind. As a senator, I have long believed in the importance of dialogue and service. Standing among so many world leaders, faith representatives and citizens alike, I was reminded that leadership is not measured by power or prestige, but by service to others and the ability to inspire hope.
As the College of Cardinals prepares for the conclave to elect the next Holy Father, I extend my best wishes to Canadian cardinals Michael Czerny, Gérald Lacroix, and Francis Leo. May they be guided by wisdom, strength and the spirit of unity that Pope Francis so faithfully championed.
Requiescat in pace, Pope Francis. Your legacy will continue to inspire dialogue, foster understanding and remind us all that true leadership is found in service, humility and love.
It was a privilege to walk through history, representing our great country in a moment that will be remembered not only by the Catholic world, but by all who believe in the power of compassion, humility and peace.
Senator Tony Loffreda represents the Shawinegan division of Quebec in the Senate.
This article was published in The Suburban on May 3, 2025.
Photo caption: From left, Cardinal Francis Leo of Canada, Senator Tony Loffreda, and Canadian cardinals Michael Czerny and Gérald Lacroix.
In the heart of Rome, beneath the solemn skies and among the timeless stones of St. Peter’s Basilica, I had the immense honour of representing Canada as part of the official delegation at the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis.
This was not only a moment of profound personal reflection, but also a powerful reminder of the global impact of a man who embodied peace, humility and dialogue. Amidst the silence and prayers of millions, we bid farewell to a shepherd who devoted his life to lifting the marginalized, healing divisions and reminding the world that compassion must walk hand-in-hand with faith.
Our Canadian delegation, led with grace and distinction by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, was a testament to the deep respect and admiration Canada holds for the Holy Father and the Holy See. We were joined by our outstanding ambassadors, Her Excellency Joyce Napier, Ambassador to the Holy See, and Her Excellency Elissa Golberg, Ambassador to Italy, as well as the Honourable Raymonde Gagné, Speaker of the Senate. Their leadership and presence during this historic and emotional moment made me proud to be Canadian.
The atmosphere throughout the Vatican was filled with a dignified sorrow, but also a sense of enduring hope — the very hope Pope Francis championed throughout his pontificate. His moral clarity, unwavering humility and steadfast dedication to dialogue across faiths and nations inspired countless individuals, transcending borders, religions and generations.
Following the funeral, Ambassador Napier hosted a meaningful reception at her official residence. The reception provided a unique opportunity for reflection and fellowship among those who had gathered from all corners of the globe. I am grateful for her warm hospitality and for fostering an environment where we could honour the Holy Father’s memory and share the ways in which his legacy touched each of our lives.
As I stood in St. Peter’s Square, surrounded by thousands of mourners — heads bowed, hands clasped in silent prayer — I was struck by the universality of Pope Francis’s message. His unwavering call for unity, justice, service and love resonated far beyond the Vatican walls. In an increasingly divided world, his voice was a beacon, urging us to find common ground and to lead with compassion and humility.
Canada’s values — equality, respect for human rights, diversity and a strong commitment to democracy and social justice — align deeply with the legacy Pope Francis leaves behind. As a senator, I have long believed in the importance of dialogue and service. Standing among so many world leaders, faith representatives and citizens alike, I was reminded that leadership is not measured by power or prestige, but by service to others and the ability to inspire hope.
As the College of Cardinals prepares for the conclave to elect the next Holy Father, I extend my best wishes to Canadian cardinals Michael Czerny, Gérald Lacroix, and Francis Leo. May they be guided by wisdom, strength and the spirit of unity that Pope Francis so faithfully championed.
Requiescat in pace, Pope Francis. Your legacy will continue to inspire dialogue, foster understanding and remind us all that true leadership is found in service, humility and love.
It was a privilege to walk through history, representing our great country in a moment that will be remembered not only by the Catholic world, but by all who believe in the power of compassion, humility and peace.
Senator Tony Loffreda represents the Shawinegan division of Quebec in the Senate.
This article was published in The Suburban on May 3, 2025.