Markus Söder Reflects on the Papal Funeral in Rome

In a significant moment for the German political landscape, Markus Söder, the Minister-President of Bavaria, represented the CDU at the funeral of the late Pope Francis in Rome. Following the withdrawal of Friedrich Merz from the delegation, Söder emerged as a key figure, embarking on the journey to pay his respects to the deceased pontiff. He departed Berlin early in the morning aboard a government plane alongside Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

Söder expressed a deep sense of honor and sentimentality regarding his participation in the funeral service. He reflected on his previous encounters with Pope Francis, emphasizing the warmth and joy that characterized their discussions. The Minister-President recalled how, during their last meeting, the Pope insisted on personally escorting him to the door, despite his physical limitations. This gesture left a lasting impression on Söder, highlighting the Pope's commitment to personal connections.

During the funeral proceedings, which took place in St. Peter's Square, Söder noted the poignant atmosphere that enveloped the event. He remarked on the collective grief felt by attendees and the reverence shown towards the late Pope. A notable moment was the enthusiastic applause received for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, showcasing a significant global solidarity amidst the somber occasion.

However, the journey to the funeral was not without its challenges. Söder and the German delegation encountered delays due to traffic caused by the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump, which led to a temporary lockdown of the area. This unexpected situation required the delegation to abandon their vehicles and proceed on foot, a scenario that Söder described as ultimately beneficial, allowing for moments of reflection during the walk.

As the ceremony unfolded, Söder took to social media to share his experiences, including a selfie taken during the flight. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a historically significant event and for the chance to honor a figure he regarded with great admiration.

The funeral service not only marked the end of an era with the passing of Pope Francis but also highlighted the interconnectedness of global leaders in times of mourning. Söder's presence underscored the importance of political representation at such pivotal events, emphasizing the role of faith in international diplomacy.