The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis’s funeral will be held on Saturday at 8:00 AM GMT at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. This solemn ceremony will draw dignitaries from around the world, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Argentina’s President Javier Milei, to pay their respects to the late pontiff.
The funeral preparations coincide with the release of the first images of Pope Francis lying in repose, which have been shared by the Vatican to mark the beginning of the mourning period.
The images, taken inside the private chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, show Pope Francis dressed in red liturgical vestments, wearing a mitre, and holding a rosary in his hands. These visuals are part of the traditional rituals that follow the death of a pope, symbolising the Church’s reverence for its leader.
The release of these images comes a day after the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88 due to a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.
Pope Francis’s death has triggered a series of ancient customs, including the breaking of his Fisherman’s Ring and lead seal to prevent their future use. The funeral will be a moment of global unity, as leaders from diverse backgrounds gather to honour the legacy of a pope known for his advocacy for the poor and marginalised.
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis expressed his wish to be buried in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major, rather than St. Peter’s Basilica, in his final testament.
As the Catholic Church prepares for the transition to a new pope, the funeral marks a significant moment in the process. Cardinals will convene to discuss funeral arrangements and oversee Church operations until a new pontiff is elected. The conclave to select the next pope is expected to begin around May 6, involving approximately 135 eligible cardinals.
The world continues to reflect on Pope Francis’s enduring legacy as a champion of peace and compassion, and his funeral will serve as a poignant reminder of his impact on the global community.