Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke that led to irreversible heart failure following a weeks-long hospitalization with pneumonia. His death marks a significant moment in the history of the Church, as he was known for his humble approach and efforts to modernize the papacy.
In the wake of his passing, the Vatican has released images of the pontiff laid out in an open coffin, dressed in his vestments and holding a rosary. The official declaration of death was read by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in an intimate ceremony held shortly after his passing. A seal was placed on the papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace and the Chapel of Santa Marta, where he had spent his final days. These images were shared on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, showing Francis in repose, surrounded by ceremonial guards as members of the pontifical household paid their respects.
The official lying-in-state period for Pope Francis is set to begin on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, allowing the public to enter St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their final respects. Matteo Bruni, the Vatican spokesman, indicated that the transfer of the body to the basilica could occur on Wednesday morning, with the first meeting of the Congregation of Cardinals taking place the same day to initiate funeral plans.
Pope Francis's funeral Mass is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals. Following the Mass, the pope's coffin will be transported to St. Peter’s Basilica and then to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where he will be buried. This burial site is significant as it reflects his wishes to be interred outside the Vatican, in a church he visited frequently during his papacy.
In a departure from traditional papal funerals, which typically involve elaborate rituals and multiple coffins, Francis had made plans for a simpler farewell. He opted for a single wooden coffin lined with zinc, a stark contrast to the three coffins used by previous popes. This decision aligns with his desire to avoid idolization and extravagance, emphasizing simplicity throughout his papacy. His final testament expressed a wish for his remains to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where he often prayed before and after international trips.
World leaders and thousands of faithful from around the globe are expected to attend the funeral. U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed his attendance, alongside other heads of state such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending, as confirmed by the Kremlin due to his ongoing international legal challenges.
The funeral marks the beginning of a nine-day period of Masses offered for the repose of Pope Francis's soul, known as the “Novendiales.” Each day, a cardinal chosen by the late pope will preside over a Requiem Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, honoring his legacy and contributions to the Church.
As preparations for the funeral continue, the College of Cardinals will also begin the process of selecting a new pope. This conclave, which generally takes place 15 to 20 days after the death of a pontiff, will see the cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel, sealing themselves off from the outside world until a new leader is chosen. Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, currently numbering around 135.
The meetings leading up to the conclave are crucial as cardinals discuss the future direction of the Church and the qualities needed in the next pope. Observers note that while these discussions are not overtly political, they often reflect differing perspectives within the Church and can indicate potential candidates for the papacy.
Pope Francis's papacy has been characterized by a focus on social justice, interfaith dialogue, and a commitment to addressing issues such as climate change and poverty. His death has prompted reflections on his impact and the direction the Church may take in the future, particularly in light of the challenges facing the global community.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, his legacy of humility, compassion, and reform will undoubtedly influence the Church for years to come. His final wishes and the manner of his funeral reflect the values he championed throughout his life, serving as a reminder of the importance of simplicity and service to others.
