The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis' funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The event will feature simpler rituals, reflecting the informal style that characterized Francis' papacy. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the ceremony, which will adhere to guidelines established by the Vatican under Francis' direction.
On Tuesday, the pope's body was laid to rest at his residence, Casa Santa Marta. Images released by the Vatican showed Francis in an open coffin, dressed in red and white vestments and holding a rosary. On Wednesday, the coffin will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica, where it will lie in state for three days, allowing mourners to pay their respects.
Memorial Masses for Francis were held globally on Tuesday, including at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney and Manila Cathedral in the Philippines. Flags were flown at half-staff at government buildings in various countries, including Italy, Brazil, and Argentina, the pope's homeland, as official mourning periods began.
Political and religious leaders from around the world are expected to attend the funeral. The process of selecting a new pope will commence shortly after the funeral, with cardinals under the age of 80 eligible to vote. The conclave, which will determine the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church, will take place behind closed doors.
Pope Francis passed away from a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and cardiovascular collapse. His will revealed that he wished to be buried at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, requesting a simple, undecorated tomb with only the inscription “Franciscus.”
Francis is remembered for his openness to the L.G.B.T.Q. community, his appointments of bishops, and his advocacy for climate change action and migrant rights. His death on Easter Monday has been noted for its symbolic significance within the Catholic Church.
In the days following his death, memorial services have been held in various locations, including Jerusalem, Los Angeles, and Buenos Aires, where many mourners reflected on his legacy and impact on the church and society.
Francis had a unique connection with the global Catholic community, particularly in Latin America, where his roots resonated deeply with many. His emphasis on humility and service is expected to influence the selection of his successor.
As nations observe periods of mourning, the Vatican has confirmed that the public will have the opportunity to pay their last respects to Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica prior to the funeral.