SB. Nun who broke protocol to mourn Pope Francis speaks out

In a deeply emotional moment that resonated with millions around the world, Sister Geneviève Jeanningros, a longtime friend of Pope Francis, broke traditional Vatican protocol to grieve at his coffin. Now, she has shared her thoughts about the encounter, offering a touching glimpse into their enduring relationship.

Remembering Pope Francis: A Legacy of Compassion and Inclusion

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 following a stroke【source: Vatican News】. His leadership of the Catholic Church, beginning with his election in March 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, was marked by a commitment to inclusivity, humility, and a focus on marginalized communities【source: The Holy See Press Office】【source: BBC News】.

Throughout his 12-year papacy, Francis emphasized the importance of mercy, environmental stewardship, and outreach to the poor and disenfranchised, making him one of the most beloved pontiffs in modern history.

Sister Geneviève’s Relationship with Pope Francis

Sister Geneviève Jeanningros first met then-Archbishop Jorge Bergoglio in 2005 during a significant event in Buenos Aires. She had traveled to Argentina for the reburial of her aunt, Léonie Duquet, a French nun who was killed during the country’s military dictatorship in the 1970s【source: National Catholic Reporter】. Bergoglio’s approval of the reburial led to a bond between the two that lasted nearly two decades.

Over the years, Sister Geneviève became more than just an acquaintance. She was part of a group that included LGBTQ+ individuals who met regularly with Francis. Their meetings were a testament to Francis’ approach of embracing dialogue, compassion, and understanding, even on issues considered sensitive within the Church【source: Reuters】.

Sister Geneviève herself has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within Catholic spaces, working to bridge the gap between traditional religious teachings and the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ Catholics.

The Moment That Captured the World’s Attention

On April 23, 2025, as Pope Francis lay in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican protocol restricted access to male clergy during specific moments of the mourning rituals【source: Vatican Information Service】. However, Sister Geneviève approached the casket to pay her respects.

Clutching a tissue, she stood silently, wiping tears as she mourned her friend. Although she technically broke protocol, no Vatican officials intervened. The quiet dignity of the moment was captured on video and quickly went viral, touching hearts around the world【source: NBC News】.

Speaking later to Noticias Telemundo, Sister Geneviève described Pope Francis as “a father, a friend, and a brother,” emphasizing the deep personal connection they shared【source: Noticias Telemundo】. She also revealed that she had been visiting his resting place daily during the public mourning period.

An Advocate for Inclusivity

Sister Geneviève also recalled her last visit with Pope Francis, where she introduced Laura Esquibel, a transgender woman from Paraguay. Laura shared, “I was the first trans woman to shake his hand. I’ve seen him seven times; we had lunch together. I liked him a lot”【source: Noticias Telemundo】.

This anecdote highlights Pope Francis’ well-known commitment to meeting with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Although his official teachings upheld Catholic doctrine, Francis repeatedly called for compassion and respect toward LGBTQ+ individuals, famously stating in 2013, “If someone is gay and is searching for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?”【source: BBC News】.

Such gestures, both public and private, reinforced his message that the Catholic Church must be a place of welcome and understanding.

Mourning a Global Spiritual Leader

More than 250,000 people visited Pope Francis’ coffin at St. Peter’s Basilica in the days leading up to his funeral【source: Vatican News】. St. Peter’s Square was filled with thousands more as dignitaries and faithful from around the world came to pay their final respects.

Among the attending dignitaries were U.S. President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Prince William. Despite the solemnity of the occasion, some behavior at the funeral, including the conduct of certain world leaders, drew criticism from observers【source: Associated Press】.

However, the overwhelming mood was one of deep respect and mourning for a pope who had left an indelible mark on the Church and the world.

Sister Geneviève’s Final Thoughts

Since the funeral, Sister Geneviève has largely declined further interviews. Overwhelmed by grief, she told GI news outlet, “No, I can’t. I don’t want to talk to anyone, I’m sorry. I can’t because it’s too much, you know? I liked him a lot, that’s it.”

Her words reflect a sentiment shared by millions who found hope, compassion, and humanity in Pope Francis’ papacy.

Pope Francis’ Enduring Legacy

Pope Francis’ death marks the end of an era defined by efforts to make the Catholic Church more accessible, transparent, and welcoming. His papacy emphasized environmental responsibility, global solidarity, and pastoral care for all, including the poor, refugees, and marginalized groups【source: Laudato Si’, Papal Encyclical】【source: Vatican News】.

Francis’ unique approach to leadership ensured that he was not only the spiritual head of the Catholic Church but also a moral voice in global conversations about justice, compassion, and human dignity.

His teachings and actions will continue to inspire future generations, and personal stories like Sister Geneviève’s offer a moving glimpse into the profound personal impact he had on those he encountered.

Sources:

• Vatican News – Pope Francis’ Life and Death
• BBC News – Pope Francis’ Key Moments
• National Catholic Reporter – Francis and the Church’s Future
• Reuters – Pope Francis and LGBTQ+ Outreach
• Associated Press – Pope Francis Funeral Coverage
• Laudato Si’ – Papal Encyclical on the Environment
• Noticias Telemundo – Sister Geneviève Interview