In brief
In a poignant moment during the funeral of Pope Francis held outside St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, American journalist Kielce Gussie was honored with the task of delivering the first reading. Her voice resonated across the crowd as she read a significant passage from the Acts of the Apostles, marking a heartfelt farewell to the late pontiff.
April 26, 2025, 10:23 a.m. ET — The funeral for Pope Francis attracted thousands of mourners in St. Peter's Square on Saturday. The ceremony featured the heartfelt participation of Kielce Gussie, a 28-year-old American reporter with Vatican News, who had the distinct honor of delivering the first reading of the Mass.Expressing her feelings on social media, she described the experience as "a great way to say goodbye" to the beloved pontiff. The passage she read, chosen by Pope Francis himself, was from Acts 10: 34-43, a message deeply cherished within the Catholic faith. Originally from Florida, Gussie's journey took her to Mount St. Mary’s University in Maryland for her studies in theology. Since moving to Rome in 2019, she has contributed to Vatican News—a media outlet initiated by Francis to enhance the church's visibility and commentary.Reflecting on this milestone, Gussie shared her appreciation of being part of such a significant moment within the church. Her last personal memory with Francis was a blessing he offered on her birthday. "It’s really a special way to spend my birthday," she stated, recalling the poignant memories intertwined with the mourning of a cherished leader.As she witnessed the frailty of the pontiff during his last days, Gussie noted, "he gave everything until the end," highlighting the deep compassion and commitment shown by Pope Francis throughout his ministry. Her role at this impactful service illustrates the intersection of journalism, faith, and personal reflection, showcasing the profound legacy Francis leaves behind.
