Though millions of people follow the Catholic faith, many aren’t fully aware of what happens behind the scenes, especially when it comes to the death and election of a new pope. One significant tradition involves the Pope lying in state.
After Pope Francis passed away, his body was displayed at St. Patrick’s, where many came to pay their respects. However, one particular moment caught many off guard.
The moment when a nun stepped out of line beside Pope Francis’ casket on April 23, crying and lingering in farewell, became a viral moment that captured the genuine sorrow felt by many. Her emotional gesture left many viewers moved, leading to questions about her identity and the connection she had with the late pope.
The nun was later identified, and it was revealed that she and Pope Francis had shared a friendship that spanned decades. Her tears were not just for a figurehead but for a personal bond she had cherished throughout her life.
One viewer who watched the moment shared that it was a “genuine pain” they felt, noting that it felt like a historic scene—an intimate farewell to a beloved leader. Pope Francis, whose birth name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, at the age of 88 following a stroke. His death left a deep impact on Catholics worldwide, with over 48,000 people visiting St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their respects.
Numerous bishops, cardinals, and clerics were present, along with other Catholics, including the nun who had been waiting in line. As she moved forward, she stepped aside from the crowd and positioned herself next to the ropes, just outside the boundary. This action would likely be seen by many as a violation of protocol.
Sister Geneviève Jeanningros, an 81-year-old nun from the Little Sisters of Jesus order, was born in France to Argentine parents. She was a personal friend of Pope Francis.
Their friendship spanned over 40 years, built on mutual respect. Both shared a deep commitment to helping the less fortunate. In addition, Jeanningros was a strong advocate for the LGBT+ community, standing by them in her work.
Genevieve Jeanningros, la monja amiga del Papa, llora ante su féretro https://t.co/A1AJ2oFYKi pic.twitter.com/rviK1UGY40
— Europa Press TV (@europapress_tv) April 23, 2025
Sister Jeanningros, who was deeply moved by Pope Francis’ death, once described him as “a true shepherd” for his unwavering dedication to caring for the “wounded sheep”—those in need and those who had been forgotten by society. Her words echoed the profound impact Pope Francis had on those who shared his mission of service and compassion.
The Pope, in his own way, affectionately referred to Sister Jeanningros as ‘L’enfant terrible,’ recognizing her fearless and tenacious commitment to helping others. This nickname highlighted her strength in advocating for the marginalized and those in need, even in the face of adversity.
Sister Jeanningros lives with another nun, Anna Amelia Giachetto, in a modest caravan. Together, they live simply, sharing meals and offering their help to those around them. Their humble lifestyle reflects the values they uphold—living for others and serving the community, just as they were inspired to do by Pope Francis
Na audiência hoje com #PapaFrancisco, da União Nacional de Atrações Itinerantes, estava Ir. Genevieve Jeanningros: ela comemorou junto com o #Pontífice seus 80 anos, cerca de 50 deles vividos dentro de um parque de diversões no litoral romano, onde leva adiante a sua missão #UNAV pic.twitter.com/skKrLSO58y
— Vatican News (@vaticannews_pt) March 20, 2023
Her pause beside the casket deeply moved people worldwide, particularly those who admired the Pope’s work during his life. Some argued it was a breach of protocol, but others believed she may have received prior approval from officials to approach the coffin.
Such an act isn’t typically afforded to a dignitary, but it is granted to a friend.
