Pope Francis's body was moved to St. Peter's Basilica on April 23, 2025, during a solemn procession attended by thousands of mourners. The beloved pontiff passed away on April 21, 2025, at 07:35 due to a stroke, and his death has sent shockwaves around the world.
Following his passing, the body of Pope Francis was displayed at the Santa Marta residence before being transported to St. Peter's for the wake, where it will remain until Friday. The coffin is a simple wooden structure covered in zinc, reflecting the Pope's humble approach to life and death, as he had expressed a desire for a modest burial in his spiritual testament.
The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter's Square, with expectations of over 200,000 attendees, including 170 delegations of heads of state and government. This unprecedented gathering underscores the global impact Pope Francis had during his 12-year pontificate, which followed the resignation of his predecessor, Benedict XVI.
On April 22, the Italian government declared five days of national mourning, commencing the day after the Pope's death. The public has been invited to pay their respects during the wake, which is open from 11:00 AM to midnight on Tuesday, April 22, from 7:00 AM to midnight on Thursday, April 24, and from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Friday, April 25.
As the procession began on April 23, tourists and pilgrims flocked to St. Peter's Square, filling the area with a palpable sense of grief. The body was carried in a procession from Santa Marta, drawing thousands who wished to honor the Pope's legacy. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re led a rosary in the square as part of the memorial activities, emphasizing the Pope's message of mercy and compassion.
Professor Sergio Alfieri, who coordinated the medical care for Pope Francis, reassured the public that the Pope did not suffer during his final moments. "He did not realize what was happening; it was likely an embolism leading to a stroke, but I can say with certainty that the Holy Father did not suffer," Alfieri stated in an interview.
In preparation for the funeral, authorities in Rome have implemented extensive security measures, including a no-fly zone over the area and heightened security checks. The Prefect of Rome, Lamberto Giannini, announced that large screens will be set up in various locations around St. Peter's Square to accommodate the expected crowds.
In addition to the funeral arrangements, the Italian media landscape has adjusted its programming to reflect the national mourning. Major networks like Rai and Mediaset have altered their schedules, with special broadcasts dedicated to the Pope's life and legacy. For instance, the reality show "The Couple," hosted by Ilary Blasi, paused its programming for over 24 hours to honor the Pope before resuming regular broadcasts.
As discussions about potential successors to Pope Francis commence, names such as Pietro Parolin, Matteo Zuppi, and Pierbattista Pizzaballa have emerged as possible candidates. The "Toto Papa" betting has already begun among foreign bookmakers, indicating the high interest surrounding the upcoming conclave.
President Sergio Mattarella of Italy visited Santa Marta to pay his respects, and many other dignitaries are expected to attend the funeral. Notably, former President Donald Trump announced his plan to travel to Rome for the funeral, highlighting the global significance of the event.
In the days leading to the funeral, various commemorative events are scheduled, including a mass of suffrage for Pope Francis in Naples on April 24, 2025, and a joint commemoration in the Chamber of Deputies on April 23, 2025. This shows the profound impact the Pope had not only on the Catholic Church but also on the wider societal landscape.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, his legacy of compassion, humility, and advocacy for the marginalized continues to resonate. His life was marked by a commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue, and a call for peace, making him a beloved figure not just among Catholics but for many around the globe.
