Sister Geneviève Jeanningros, a long-time friend of Pope Francis, has shared her emotional experience after breaking Vatican protocol to mourn his death at his casket. This moment, which went viral, highlighted the deep bond between the nun and the late pope, showcasing their friendship that lasted nearly two decades.
Pope Francis’ Death and Sister Geneviève’s Grief
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following a stroke. Having led the Catholic Church for over 12 years, his death marked a significant moment for millions of Catholics around the world. Sister Geneviève, known for her advocacy work with the LGBTQ+ community, was one of those deeply affected by his loss.
Their friendship began in 2005 when Sister Geneviève traveled to Buenos Aires for the reburial of her aunt, Leonie Duquet, a nun who had died during Argentina’s dictatorship. At the time, Bergoglio, then the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, had approved the reburial. This initial meeting sparked a connection that lasted for years, and their bond only grew stronger as they continued to meet regularly over the years, particularly with LGBTQ+ groups, a community close to both of them.
Pope Francis. Credit / Getty Images
Breaking Protocol to Say Goodbye
On April 23, two days after Pope Francis’ passing, Sister Geneviève visited St. Peter’s Basilica, where Francis’ body was lying in state. Despite Vatican protocol restricting access to only male clergy, Sister Geneviève approached the pope’s casket to say her final goodbye. Holding a tissue, she stood silently near the casket, wiping away tears as she mourned the loss of her dear friend.
Her emotional moment quickly went viral, drawing attention from media outlets and the public. According to NBC News, no one intervened, allowing her a few private moments to mourn. Sister Geneviève later spoke about the experience, describing Pope Francis as “a father, a friend, and a brother.”
During her interview with Noticias Telemundo on April 25, 2025, she explained that her visits to pay respects to the pope had been daily occurrences, and not just during the widely shared emotional moment at the casket. She said, “Many people told me: when you go to see the Pope, take us with you. I cried for them too.”
A Special Relationship with Pope Francis
Sister Geneviève’s relationship with Pope Francis was not just as a nun, but as a personal friend. One of her most notable visits was when she brought Laura Esquibel, a transgender woman from Paraguay, to meet the pope. Esquibel, who was the first transgender woman to shake Pope Francis’ hand, described their meeting as a special moment. “I’ve seen him seven times; we had lunch together. I liked him a lot,” she said. This moment highlighted Pope Francis’ inclusive approach to different communities, especially those often marginalized by society.
Sister Geneviève’s Grief
After the funeral, Sister Geneviève declined further interviews, expressing that the grief of losing Pope Francis was simply too overwhelming. “No, I can’t. I don’t want to talk to anyone, I’m sorry,” she said in a statement. “I can’t because it’s too much, you know? I liked him a lot, that’s it.”
More than 250,000 mourners visited Pope Francis’ casket, paying their respects before the funeral. World leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy were present at the final farewell. The outpouring of grief from both the public and dignitaries alike was a testament to Pope Francis’ impact on the world.
Sister Geneviève’s emotional tribute to Pope Francis highlights the deep personal connections he fostered during his papacy, emphasizing his legacy of inclusion, humility, and compassion. Her act of breaking protocol to say a final goodbye stands as a moving tribute to the man who touched the lives of so many.
For more on personal stories and reflections on loss, you may enjoy these articles:
