The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis' funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter's Basilica, featuring simpler rituals that reflect the informal style characteristic of his papacy. The ceremony will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, and will adhere to guidelines established under Francis' direction.
On Tuesday, the pope's body was laid to rest at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, with images released by the Vatican showing him in an open coffin dressed in red and white vestments. A procession will take place on Wednesday, moving the coffin to St. Peter's Basilica where it will lie in state for three days, allowing mourners to pay their respects.
Memorial Masses for Pope Francis were held globally on Tuesday, with flags at half-staff in several countries, including Italy and Argentina, his homeland. Political and religious leaders from around the world are expected to attend the funeral, including former President Trump, marking his first overseas trip of his current term.
Following the announcement of Francis' death, cardinals began arriving at the Vatican to prepare for the conclave that will elect his successor. The conclave will involve 135 voting cardinals and is expected to take place after the funeral, although a specific date has not yet been announced.
Pope Francis passed away due to a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and cardiovascular collapse. In his will, he expressed a desire to be buried at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, requesting a simple tomb with only the inscription "Franciscus."
His legacy includes a commitment to social issues such as climate change and the plight of migrants, as well as an openness to the L.G.B.T.Q. community. Francis was known for transforming the inner workings of the church and appointing a significant number of bishops and cardinals.
As the funeral approaches, leaders from various nations, including the UK, Italy, Ukraine, and Brazil, have confirmed their attendance, reflecting the pope's global influence and the respect he garnered during his tenure.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, a date of significant meaning for Catholics, which has led many to reflect on the symbolic nature of his passing. His death coincided with a period of reflection that follows the Easter celebration, further emphasizing his connection to the Christian faith.
In his final days, Pope Francis maintained contact with the Christian community in Gaza, demonstrating his commitment to global humanitarian issues even amid personal health challenges. His outreach to marginalized communities and advocacy for peace will be remembered as key aspects of his papacy.
As preparations for the funeral continue, the Vatican has sealed the apartments where Francis lived, marking the end of an era characterized by his humble approach to the papacy.