Gedney Hill man ‘incredibly proud’ after taking on security duties at Pope Francis’ funeral

A former biker took on security duties while representing the UK at the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome at the weekend.

As part of his role as a Templar, Brother John Michael, of Gedney Hill, was busy patrolling and responding to any emergencies that arose at St Peters Square in Vatican City.

Tens of thousands of Catholics and other Christians flocked to Rome to pay tribute to Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday.

Ahead of the funeral, Templars from across the UK were asked to support the Vatican security forces by escorting the huge crowds.

John made the trip to Rome last week not knowing what his role would involve.

Speaking ahead of the event, he said: “All of the Templars are slowly arriving at St Peter’s Square and I feel incredibly proud to be part of it and help with everything we can.

“There is currently an eight-hour wait for people to get into St Peter’s Basilica to see the Pope, and we have been asked to help guide people to where they need to go. As time goes on, more and more people will be visiting.

“The crowds are overwhelming the Vatican security forces at the moment, not because they are a problem, but because there are so many people.

“All Christians of all walks of life are coming together in their sorrow of losing such a great man — it’s quite emotional.”

The Knights Templar were a religious military order originally founded to protect Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land.

John was looking forward to representing the United Kingdom when he carried out his duties at the weekend and, speaking after the event, recalled the atmosphere in the Vatican.

He added: “The Pope only had three personal items — a Casio watch, a cross necklace and a pair of shoes made for him by a friend in Argentina.

“He was a very modest, kind man, and since I’ve been here in Rome, everyone has picked up on the mood – it is very sad.

“The funeral was a massive event, and for us as Templars, it’s our calling to serve Pope Francis and to serve the next Pope.

“It was very significant that Pope Francis died last weekend, but I feel very proud to represent England in Rome as a security officer.

“It’s great that such a little village such as Gedney Hill has a temporary commander in it, and I was able to represent all Catholics and Christians over the weekend.”