People protested ahead of Cardinal Pell’s funeral in Sydney

On Feb 2, 2023

Cardinal George Pell of Sydney leaves a meeting of cardinals with Pope Francis in the synod hall at the Vatican Feb. 20. The Vatican announced Feb. 24 that Cardinal Pell has been appointed by Pope Francis to head a new Vatican office overseeing Vatican finances. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) (Feb. 24, 2014) See POPE-ECONOMY Feb. 24, 2014.

RELIGIONS NEWS AGENCY (REDNA) – While mass had come together for the funeral of Cardinal George Pell this morning, some people protested outside the St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney.

ABC news reports that police had to intervene in protests outside St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney, in the hours leading up to the funeral mass for Cardinal George Pell.

Colourful ribbons which were tied to the fence and gates of the cathedral, symbolising hurt caused by child sex abuse, were cut by protesters.

Cardinal Pell spent 13 months in prison after being convicted of child sex abuse but the conviction was quashed on appeal. Police have warned people to be respectful of each other.

Inside the cathedral, people knelt before his coffin in respect.