Pope Francis' upcoming funeral will be a modest affair, reflecting the values he championed during his papacy. The service on Saturday will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, and follows ritual guidelines established by Francis himself. Mourning has begun globally, with memorials held in various countries, as leaders prepare for a new conclave to elect his successor.
Pope Francis' Funeral to Reflect His Modest Legacy
Pope Francis' Funeral to Reflect His Modest Legacy
The Vatican announces a simplified funeral for Pope Francis, emphasizing the pontiff's commitment to humility and service.
April 22, 2025, 9:47 a.m. ET
Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican confirmed, embracing a more modest approach in line with the papal style during his tenure. The ceremonies will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, utilizing simplified rites instituted under Francis' guidance in the previous year.
Currently, the late pope's body lies in repose at Casa Santa Marta, a guesthouse within Vatican City that symbolizes his choice for simplicity over tradition. Photographs released show the pope in an open casket, adorned in red and white vestments, clutching a rosary. On Wednesday, his coffin will be processed to St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their respects for three days.
Throughout the world, memorial gatherings have commenced – from Manila Cathedral in the Philippines to Saint Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney. Government buildings have lowered flags to half-mast, and multiple nations have entered periods of official mourning, including his native Argentina and Brazil, where Francis commanded significant admiration.
The funeral is poised to draw political and religious figures worldwide, especially given the controversies Francis often navigated, including those involving immigration and global warming. Particularly, U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated he will attend, highlighting the diverse audience expected for the event.
Following the funeral, cardinals worldwide will convene to select Francis's successor. The conclave will likely commence after the rites, and as per Vatican rules, only those cardinals under 80 years old will be eligible to cast ballots, totaling 135 individuals.
In his will, Francis expressed the desire for a simple burial at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, seeking an undecorated grave inscribed merely with “Franciscus.” This reflects the humble approach he took throughout his papacy, often advocating on behalf of marginalized groups and tackling pressing issues like climate change.
Notably, Pope Francis passed away following health complications linked to a cerebral stroke that resulted in a coma. His legacy, notably marked by an inclusive church, will remain prominent amidst the global mourning, as leaders and common folk alike reflect on his call for unity, compassion, and care for the disenfranchised.
Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican confirmed, embracing a more modest approach in line with the papal style during his tenure. The ceremonies will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, utilizing simplified rites instituted under Francis' guidance in the previous year.
Currently, the late pope's body lies in repose at Casa Santa Marta, a guesthouse within Vatican City that symbolizes his choice for simplicity over tradition. Photographs released show the pope in an open casket, adorned in red and white vestments, clutching a rosary. On Wednesday, his coffin will be processed to St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their respects for three days.
Throughout the world, memorial gatherings have commenced – from Manila Cathedral in the Philippines to Saint Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney. Government buildings have lowered flags to half-mast, and multiple nations have entered periods of official mourning, including his native Argentina and Brazil, where Francis commanded significant admiration.
The funeral is poised to draw political and religious figures worldwide, especially given the controversies Francis often navigated, including those involving immigration and global warming. Particularly, U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated he will attend, highlighting the diverse audience expected for the event.
Following the funeral, cardinals worldwide will convene to select Francis's successor. The conclave will likely commence after the rites, and as per Vatican rules, only those cardinals under 80 years old will be eligible to cast ballots, totaling 135 individuals.
In his will, Francis expressed the desire for a simple burial at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, seeking an undecorated grave inscribed merely with “Franciscus.” This reflects the humble approach he took throughout his papacy, often advocating on behalf of marginalized groups and tackling pressing issues like climate change.
Notably, Pope Francis passed away following health complications linked to a cerebral stroke that resulted in a coma. His legacy, notably marked by an inclusive church, will remain prominent amidst the global mourning, as leaders and common folk alike reflect on his call for unity, compassion, and care for the disenfranchised.
