Islamabad, Apr 22, 2025: The Vatican has officially announced that Pope Francis’s funeral will be conducted on Saturday in St. Peter’s Square, following his passing on Monday at the age of 88.
This solemn occasion is expected to draw numerous global dignitaries and spiritual leaders, as the Roman Catholic Church initiates the sacred process of selecting a new pontiff.
According to the Vatican, Pope Francis — the first pope from Latin America — died after experiencing a sudden stroke and heart failure.
His unexpected death has left many in disbelief, particularly after his recent recovery from a five-week hospitalization caused by severe pneumonia.
He had reappeared in public on Easter Sunday, giving renewed hope to followers.
Beginning Wednesday, his remains will be placed for public viewing in St. Peter’s Basilica, following a ceremonial procession led by cardinals from his longtime residence at Casa Santa Marta.
Read More: Pope Francis Dies on Easter Monday at 88
Images shared by the Vatican depict him dressed in liturgical garments, lying in a wooden casket, guarded by the Swiss Guards.
The funeral Mass will commence at 10:00 a.m. (0800 GMT) and is anticipated to be a grand yet respectful ceremony honoring a pope who led the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church for 12 transformative years.
Among the high-profile attendees expected are global political leaders such as former U.S. President Donald Trump, Argentine President Javier Milei, Brazilian leader Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
As per papal customs, the Vatican has already carried out the ceremonial destruction of the “Fisherman’s Ring” and the pope’s official lead seal, symbolizing the conclusion of his authority.
Organizers anticipate the conclave will take place between May 6 and May 11, with 135 eligible cardinals under the age of 80 casting their secret votes inside the Sistine Chapel.
The traditional white or black smoke will signal the outcome of the election.
Although no clear successor has emerged, Francis has appointed nearly 80% of the electing cardinals — suggesting that a like-minded leader may continue his legacy of progressive reforms.
As final tributes continue at the Santa Marta residence, the Church prepares to honor a pope known for humility, reform, and inclusivity — a legacy that will shape the future of Catholicism for years to come.
