Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday in St. Peter’s Square, as Roman Catholic cardinals confirmed on Tuesday. The service is expected to attract world leaders, marking a solemn occasion following his unexpected death on Monday at the age of 88 from a stroke and cardiac arrest. His death concluded a papacy marked by frequent clashes with traditionalists and a deep commitment to advocating for the poor and marginalized.
The Pope had been hospitalized for five weeks earlier this year due to double pneumonia but seemed to be recovering, even making a public appearance on Easter Sunday. On Tuesday, the Vatican released images of Francis dressed in his vestments, lying in a wooden coffin in the chapel at his residence in Santa Marta. Swiss Guards stood beside the casket.
His body will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday morning for a procession, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday at 10:00 AM (0800 GMT) in St. Peter’s Square.
Among those expected to attend the ceremony are U.S. President Donald Trump, Argentine President Javier Milei, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
In an unprecedented move, Pope Francis expressed in his final will that he wished to be buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome rather than in St. Peter’s, where most of his predecessors are interred. Following his death, the Church has initiated ancient rituals, including the breaking of the “Fisherman’s Ring” and lead seal to prevent misuse.
The College of Cardinals met on Tuesday to finalize the events for the coming days and handle the Church’s affairs until a new pope is chosen. A conclave to elect a successor is expected to begin no earlier than May 6. While there is no clear frontrunner, the cardinals will deliberate over the qualities needed for the next pope.
Pope Francis is remembered for overhauling the Vatican, addressing corruption, and tackling the issue of child abuse in the clergy. His progressive stance, particularly on LGBTQ issues, led to tensions with conservatives within the Church. However, Francis appointed nearly 80% of the cardinals eligible to vote in the upcoming conclave, increasing the likelihood that his successor might continue his progressive policies.
