Thousands are expected to gather for Pope Francis' funeral this Saturday at St. Peter’s Basilica, where mourners have already begun paying their last respects. The ceremonies will feature a simple service reflecting Francis' humble approach to the papacy, with major global leaders like President Trump and UK's PM Keir Starmer planning to attend.
Global Leaders Honor Pope Francis as Mourners Gather Ahead of Funeral
Global Leaders Honor Pope Francis as Mourners Gather Ahead of Funeral
Pope Francis' funeral service is set for Saturday as world leaders prepare to pay their respects to the late pontiff, who died on Easter Monday.
Pope Francis' funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, following a period of mourning that began shortly after his passing on Easter Monday. The Vatican announced that the service will feature simpler rituals, in line with Francis' down-to-earth papacy. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the ceremony, adhering to guidelines set by the late pontiff himself.
On Tuesday, the pope's body was laid to rest at the Casa Santa Marta, a residence in Vatican City. Photographs revealed Francis in an open coffin, dressed in his ceremonial red and white vestments. Wednesday will mark the start of the public mourning phase, with the coffin being transported to St. Peter's Basilica for three days of viewing by the public, allowing mourners to pay tribute.
Across the globe, memorial Masses have been held to honor Francis, with notable gatherings in countries such as Australia, the Philippines, and Argentina – the latter being Francis' homeland. Various nations have declared days of mourning, including Italy, Brazil, and Lebanon.
World leaders expected to attend the funeral encompass a range of political figures, underscoring Francis' controversial but impactful legacy. Among them are President Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, signaling a significant diplomatic gathering that could ease international tensions.
The process to elect Francis' successor will begin shortly after the funeral, as cardinals from around the world convene for the conclave. As the Vatican's operations continue in this transitional period, ordinary business matters remain on hold until a new leader is chosen.
Francis' health issues, culminating in a cerebral stroke, were formally confirmed by the Vatican following his death. In his will, he expressed a desire for a modest burial at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. His choice of a simple, unadorned tomb has been a focal point in memorial discussions, reflecting his commitment to humility throughout his papal reign.
As tributes continue to pour in, Francis will be remembered for advocating for social justice, climate action, and embracing marginalized communities, leaving a complex legacy that resonates with followers worldwide.
