As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, the Vatican is preparing for a historic funeral that is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of people to Rome. According to the Vatican press office, approximately 250,000 individuals paid their respects at St. Peter's Basilica over three days prior to the funeral, which will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter's Square.
The funeral service will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who is the Dean of the College of Cardinals. It is anticipated that over 160 international delegations will be present, with an expected attendance of around 200,000 people. Large screens will be set up in surrounding areas to accommodate the crowds.
The funeral procession will follow a route from St. Peter's Basilica to Santa Maria Maggiore, a distance of approximately six kilometers. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni stated that the procession will not pass through St. Peter's Square but will exit from the Perugino Gate, with an estimated travel time of half an hour. This decision reflects the Pope's wishes for a simple and humble farewell.
On the evening of Friday, April 25, Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell presided over the private rite of closing Pope Francis's coffin in the Basilica. The Pope's coffin, which is made of zinc and placed inside a wooden coffin, remained open for three days to allow the faithful to pay their last respects.
Among the dignitaries expected to attend the funeral are former U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, along with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The funeral is a significant event that highlights Pope Francis's impact on global politics and interfaith dialogue.
In a touching tribute, the "Rogito" – a document summarizing the Pope's life and legacy – was read during the closing ceremony of his coffin. It described him as a "simple and beloved pastor, attentive to the marginalized," and emphasized his commitment to ecumenism and climate change. The document will be placed inside the coffin along with coins and medals minted during his papacy.
The Pope's burial will take place at Santa Maria Maggiore, located between the Cappella Paolina and the Cappella Sforza. This location was chosen as a reflection of his humble lifestyle and commitment to serving the less fortunate. Cardinal Rolandas Mackrickas, who oversees the basilica, noted that the Pope had expressed happiness regarding the chosen burial site, saying, "The Madonna indicated to the Pope the location of his tomb. He was grateful that she had not forgotten him."
A significant security presence is expected, with approximately 4,000 law enforcement officers deployed to ensure the safety of attendees. The Italian government has implemented strict security measures, and attendees have been advised to arrive early due to anticipated long wait times.
In addition to the dignitaries, many members of the public are expected to join the funeral procession, including the Community of Sant'Egidio, which will bring along some of the poor who had known and loved Pope Francis throughout his papacy.
As preparations continue, the atmosphere in Rome is one of somber reflection and respect. The streets are lined with pilgrims and tourists, many of whom have traveled great distances to pay their respects. The influx of visitors has also led to a surge in demand for accommodations, with prices for flights and hotels reportedly skyrocketing.
In a statement, the Vatican confirmed that the canonization of Carlo Acutis, initially scheduled for April 27, has been postponed due to the Pope's passing. This reflects the broader impact of Pope Francis's death on various church events and activities.
As the day of the funeral approaches, the world watches closely, remembering a Pope who was known for his humility, compassion, and dedication to social justice. His legacy will undoubtedly shape the future of the Catholic Church and its engagement with global issues.
In the days following the funeral, the College of Cardinals will convene to begin the process of selecting a new Pope, a pivotal moment that will determine the direction of the Church in the years to come. The Conclave is expected to be one of the most crowded in history, with many of the voting cardinals being appointed by Pope Francis himself.
As the faithful gather to honor Pope Francis, his message of love, peace, and solidarity will resonate, reminding all of the profound impact he had on millions around the globe. His call for compassion towards the marginalized and his commitment to interfaith dialogue will continue to inspire future generations.
The world bids farewell to a beloved leader, a humble servant of God who dedicated his life to the betterment of humanity.
