Pope Francis’ funeral is set for Saturday, featuring simpler rituals in line with the late pontiff’s approach to the papacy. Memorial services have begun worldwide as the Vatican prepares for the transition to a new pope, with a detailed exploration of his life and legacy.
Pope Francis’ Funeral Scheduled for Saturday with Modest Rites Reflecting His Legacy
Pope Francis’ Funeral Scheduled for Saturday with Modest Rites Reflecting His Legacy
The upcoming funeral for Pope Francis, which will take place in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, will embody his signature humility, breaking from traditional papal ceremonies.
April 22, 2025, 11:44 a.m. ET
Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, as confirmed by the Vatican. The event is expected to showcase the modesty that characterized Francis' papacy, with streamlined rituals. As the ceremony approaches, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will lead the proceedings, adhering to guidelines set forth by the late pope himself.
Currently, the pontiff's body lies in repose at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, where images depict him in an open coffin dressed in his papal vestments. In preparation for the funeral, his coffin will journey to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, allowing mourners to pay their respects for three days prior to the burial.
All around the globe, memorial Masses are occurring in remembrance of Francis, including notable services at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Australia and in Manila, Philippines. Flags have been lowered to half-staff in numerous countries, while official mourning periods have commenced in nations such as Italy and Argentina, reflecting the impact Francis had as the first Latin American pope.
Political and religious figures worldwide are anticipated to attend the funeral, including former President Trump. The logistics of accommodating high-profile attendees have added complexities for Vatican officials. The conclave to elect Francis’ successor will follow shortly after the funeral, underpinning the urgency of selecting a new pope for the 1.3 billion Catholics he shepherded.
Francis passed away on Easter Monday from complications arising from a cerebral stroke, an event that has left many grappling with both shock and sadness. His will, disclosed by the Vatican, expressed a desire for a simple burial, underscoring his lifelong commitment to humility. The eventual location of his grave will be at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, a significant site for the late pope, signaling his dedication to Mary and continuing the legacy of simplicity he championed.
Admirers of Francis remember him fondly for his progressive stance on inclusivity, climate change, and the plight of migrants, further solidifying the lasting impact of his leadership. As nations come together to celebrate his contributions and bid farewell, the legacy of Pope Francis remains pivotal in shaping conversations around ethics, compassion, and global unity within the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, as confirmed by the Vatican. The event is expected to showcase the modesty that characterized Francis' papacy, with streamlined rituals. As the ceremony approaches, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will lead the proceedings, adhering to guidelines set forth by the late pope himself.
Currently, the pontiff's body lies in repose at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, where images depict him in an open coffin dressed in his papal vestments. In preparation for the funeral, his coffin will journey to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, allowing mourners to pay their respects for three days prior to the burial.
All around the globe, memorial Masses are occurring in remembrance of Francis, including notable services at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Australia and in Manila, Philippines. Flags have been lowered to half-staff in numerous countries, while official mourning periods have commenced in nations such as Italy and Argentina, reflecting the impact Francis had as the first Latin American pope.
Political and religious figures worldwide are anticipated to attend the funeral, including former President Trump. The logistics of accommodating high-profile attendees have added complexities for Vatican officials. The conclave to elect Francis’ successor will follow shortly after the funeral, underpinning the urgency of selecting a new pope for the 1.3 billion Catholics he shepherded.
Francis passed away on Easter Monday from complications arising from a cerebral stroke, an event that has left many grappling with both shock and sadness. His will, disclosed by the Vatican, expressed a desire for a simple burial, underscoring his lifelong commitment to humility. The eventual location of his grave will be at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, a significant site for the late pope, signaling his dedication to Mary and continuing the legacy of simplicity he championed.
Admirers of Francis remember him fondly for his progressive stance on inclusivity, climate change, and the plight of migrants, further solidifying the lasting impact of his leadership. As nations come together to celebrate his contributions and bid farewell, the legacy of Pope Francis remains pivotal in shaping conversations around ethics, compassion, and global unity within the Catholic Church.
