The funeral ceremonies for Pope Francis will be broadcast live on April 26, 2025, starting at 9:30 AM Polish time, culminating in a mass at 10:00 AM at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican. This significant event will be covered extensively by various media outlets, including Telewizja Polska (TVP), which will provide a comprehensive transmission from a special studio set up at the General Curia of the Pallottines in Rome.
Leading the broadcast will be Marek Zając, the deputy director of TVP's Programming Office for documentary and historical broadcasts. His guests will include notable personalities such as film director Krzysztof Zanussi, ks. Przemysław Śliwiński from the Archdiocese of Warsaw, and veteran Vatican correspondent Magdalena Wolińska-Riedi, among others. The studio in Warsaw will be hosted by Monika Woźniak, with expert commentary from Tomasz Krzyżak and dr hab. Barbara Strzałkowska.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, the Vatican will be the center of attention with live footage showing the interior of the chapel and the flow of faithful arriving at St. Peter's Square. The funeral mass will feature clergy and global leaders, followed by the transportation of the Pope's coffin to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, where he will be laid to rest in a simple grave marked with the inscription “Franciscus.”
In Buenos Aires, TVP's Artur Kieruzal will report from locations significant to Pope Francis's life, interviewing individuals who had personal connections with him. This connection to his roots highlights the global impact the Pope had during his lifetime.
Before the funeral broadcast, a documentary film titled “Franciszek. Pielgrzym nadziei” by Piotr Kot will premiere at 8:35 AM on TVP1 and TVP Polonia, offering insights into the Pope's life and his approach to contemporary challenges.
Following the funeral, a musical performance titled “Ufaj Mi, Jestem z Tobą, nie lękaj się niczego. Symfonia Miłosierdzia” will air at 5:30 PM on TVP2. This concert will feature international stars performing songs in 16 languages at the Sanctuary of John Paul II in Łagiewniki, celebrating the Pope's legacy through music.
The event will also be streamed online through various platforms, including the official Vatican Media YouTube channel and TVP VOD, ensuring that millions around the world can participate in this historic moment.
In Poland, the day of the funeral has not been declared a public holiday, but it falls on a Saturday, allowing many to engage with the ceremonies without needing to take time off work. However, those in shift work or retail may need to coordinate with employers to adjust their schedules accordingly.
As the world watches, the funeral of Pope Francis serves as a poignant reminder of his influence and the widespread affection he garnered throughout his papacy. From his humble beginnings in Argentina to his elevation as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis's journey was marked by a commitment to social justice, humility, and compassion.
As preparations unfold for the ceremonies, the media landscape is buzzing with coverage plans. TVN24 will begin its broadcast at 9:30 AM, while Polsat News will cover the event from 9:00 AM to 12:50 PM, featuring live reports from Vatican correspondents and interviews with attendees, including Polish President Andrzej Duda.
Meanwhile, the Republika channel will kick off its special coverage at 8:30 AM, with hosts providing insights and commentary throughout the day. The comprehensive media coverage reflects the global significance of Pope Francis's funeral, capturing the attention of millions who wish to pay their respects.
In summary, the funeral of Pope Francis is set to be a monumental event, broadcast live across various platforms, allowing people from all walks of life to join in mourning and celebration of his life. With a rich program of broadcasts, documentaries, and musical tributes, this day promises to honor the legacy of a beloved leader who touched the hearts of many.
