Sister Geneviève Speaks Out on Emotional Moment
Sister Geneviève Jeanningros, the nun who made headlines for breaking protocol to mourn Pope Francis, has now opened up about the emotional experience.
A Deep Connection to Pope Francis
Geneviève, a longtime friend of the late Pope, was deeply affected by his death. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on Easter Monday (April 21) at the age of 88 following a stroke. As the head of the Catholic Church for 12 years, his leadership focused on inclusion, a value that resonated deeply with Sister Geneviève.
A Bond That Spans Over 15 Years
Geneviève’s relationship with Pope Francis dates back to 2005 when she traveled to Buenos Aires for the reburial of her aunt, Leonie Duquet. The late nun had died during Argentina’s dictatorship in the 1970s, and then-Archbishop Bergoglio approved the reburial. Their encounter sparked a deep friendship that lasted nearly two decades.
A Close Relationship with Pope Francis
Geneviève, an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, formed a special bond with Francis. Together with a group of LGBTQ+ members, she met with him weekly. Just last July, Francis visited Geneviève in Ostia, where they shared a close friendship.
Breaking Protocol to Mourn
On April 23, as Pope Francis lay in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, Sister Geneviève broke Vatican protocol to approach his casket. While male clergy were the only ones permitted near the coffin, Geneviève, clutching a tissue, wiped away her tears in a private moment of mourning. Her emotional farewell quickly went viral, but no one intervened.
Opening Up About Her Grief
Speaking to Noticias Telemundo on April 25, Sister Geneviève described Pope Francis as “a father, a friend, and a brother.” She shared that she had been visiting the coffin every day, not just during the viral moment. “Many people told me: when you go to see the Pope, take us with you,” she said, expressing her sorrow for them as well.
A Touching Memory
Geneviève also shared a memorable moment when she brought Laura Esquibel, a transgender woman from Paraguay, to meet Pope Francis. Laura, who was the first trans woman to shake Francis’ hand, fondly recalled their seven encounters, including sharing lunch together.
Declining Further Interviews
Since the funeral, Geneviève has declined further interviews, citing overwhelming grief. “I can’t because it’s too much, you know?” she explained. “I liked him a lot, that’s it.”
The Global Farewell to Pope Francis
Over 250,000 mourners visited Pope Francis’ coffin before the funeral, and thousands more filled St. Peter’s Square for his final farewell. World leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, attended the funeral, marking a significant global tribute to the Pope.
