The Vatican released a previously-unseen video of Pope Francis on Sunday, a day after hundreds of thousands gathered for the leader of the Catholic Church’s funeral.

The video, which was recorded in January this year, shows the late pope giving advice to young people, including the importance of listening to others, such as the elderly.

The Context

The death of Francis, whose given name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, on Monday marked the end of a 12-year papacy characterized by the late pontiff’s desire to adjust the Church to the modern world and soften its approach regarding LGBTQ+ communities. Cardinals gathered in Rome for Francis’ funeral and to prepare for the conclave, where the next pope will be chosen.

What To Know

In the video, Francis called on younger people to “learn to listen,” which he described as an important skill needed to navigate life.

“Dear boys and girls, one of the most important things in life is to listen—to learn how to listen,” he said.

“Listen to your grandparents—they teach us so much. When someone speaks to you, wait for them to finish so you can really understand, and then, if you feel like it, respond. But the important thing is to listen.

“Look closely at people—people don’t listen. Halfway through an explanation, they’ll answer, and that doesn’t help peace. Listen—listen a lot.”

The funeral Mass was attended by global dignitaries, heads of state, religious leaders, and thousands of ordinary pilgrims. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, presided over the liturgy.

Francis’ body was laid to rest in a chapel at St. Mary Major, marking a return to a tradition of early popes being buried outside St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Vatican has announced that St. Mary Major Basilica will remain open for public veneration of Francis’ tomb for the next several weeks, allowing pilgrims to pay their respects.

What Happens Next

The conclave to choose the next pope is expected to begin in May. The two favorites to become the new leader of the Catholic Church are Cardinals Pietro Parolin and Luis Antonio Tagle.

Of the 252 cardinals at the Vatican, only 135 are eligible to vote for the new pope based on age. The voters must be younger than 80 years old, and they will take a vow of secrecy before processing to the Sistine Chapel to conduct the voting.

Of the 135 eligible cardinals, 108 were appointed to their post by Francis, making it likely his influence will be considerable over his successor even after his passing.