Join the world in reflecting on the profound ceremonies of Pope Francis' funeral as leaders and faithful alike gather in remembrance
Pope Francis' Farewell: An Event of Grace and Simplicity
Pope Francis' Farewell: An Event of Grace and Simplicity
A visual guide to the quintessential moments at the Pope's funeral
The funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away recently, is marked by a simplicity he personally requested, diverging from the grandeur typically associated with such occasions. Nevertheless, being a prominent leader of over a billion Catholics and a head of state, the event is steeped in tradition. Key figures, including political leaders, clergy, and countless devotees, have gathered in Vatican City to mourn and celebrate his life.
Beginning with gathering clerics in the early morning at locations within St. Peter's Basilica, the proceedings lead into a major procession at 10:00 local time, featuring the Pope's coffin as it is placed in the square. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presides over the service, which will involve prayers and a rite of formal commendation for Pope Francis. After the main ceremony, attendees will continue to reflect on the Pope’s contributions with daily mass during a nine-day mourning period.
Attendance at the funeral is expected to reach approximately 250,000, with around 170 world leaders confirmed to pay their final respects. British royalty, including Prince William representing King Charles III, and international figures like US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, demonstrate the global impact of Pope Francis.
Those involved in the service will be dressed according to traditional liturgical attire, including distinct garments for bishops and cardinals, while Orthodox patriarchs will showcase their unique styles. After the service, the Pope's remains will be transported to Santa Maria Maggiore for burial — marking a departure from previous papal burials in the Vatican.
Notably, Francis expressed a desire for a simpler burial, requesting a humble wooden coffin rather than the ornate nested coffins of past popes, further reflecting his values as a shepherd rather than a monarch. His final resting place at Santa Maria Maggiore, a church significant to his Jesuit faith and devotion to the Virgin Mary, emphasizes his personal connections and spiritual journey.
The funeral will be broadcasted live for those wanting to participate from afar, ensuring that the legacy of Pope Francis continues to inspire beyond the confines of the Vatican. Join us to honor a figure who reshaped modern Catholicism with humility and grace.
Beginning with gathering clerics in the early morning at locations within St. Peter's Basilica, the proceedings lead into a major procession at 10:00 local time, featuring the Pope's coffin as it is placed in the square. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presides over the service, which will involve prayers and a rite of formal commendation for Pope Francis. After the main ceremony, attendees will continue to reflect on the Pope’s contributions with daily mass during a nine-day mourning period.
Attendance at the funeral is expected to reach approximately 250,000, with around 170 world leaders confirmed to pay their final respects. British royalty, including Prince William representing King Charles III, and international figures like US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, demonstrate the global impact of Pope Francis.
Those involved in the service will be dressed according to traditional liturgical attire, including distinct garments for bishops and cardinals, while Orthodox patriarchs will showcase their unique styles. After the service, the Pope's remains will be transported to Santa Maria Maggiore for burial — marking a departure from previous papal burials in the Vatican.
Notably, Francis expressed a desire for a simpler burial, requesting a humble wooden coffin rather than the ornate nested coffins of past popes, further reflecting his values as a shepherd rather than a monarch. His final resting place at Santa Maria Maggiore, a church significant to his Jesuit faith and devotion to the Virgin Mary, emphasizes his personal connections and spiritual journey.
The funeral will be broadcasted live for those wanting to participate from afar, ensuring that the legacy of Pope Francis continues to inspire beyond the confines of the Vatican. Join us to honor a figure who reshaped modern Catholicism with humility and grace.
