As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 21, 2025, at 7:35 AM due to a stroke, preparations are underway for his funeral scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter's Square. The Vatican has opened its doors for the public to pay their respects, with Piazza San Pietro accessible until 5:00 PM on Friday, April 25, 2025, allowing thousands to honor the late pontiff.
According to Vatican News, approximately 250,000 people have visited the Basilica of San Pietro from April 23 to April 25, 2025, to pay their last respects to Pope Francis. The outpouring of grief has been palpable, as the faithful line up to say their goodbyes to a leader revered for his compassion and commitment to social justice.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa presided over the fifth evening rosary in memory of Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore on April 25, 2025. "Even we, faced with such a mystery, are tempted to be overwhelmed and struggle to place our trust in God," he said, urging the congregation to transform their sorrow into hope.
Among the notable attendees expected at the funeral are President Donald Trump, who confirmed he would meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during his brief stay in Rome. Trump arrived at Villa Taverna, the residence of the U.S. ambassador, after landing at Fiumicino Airport on April 25, 2025, at 10:55 PM. He remarked on the significance of Pope Francis, stating, "He really loved the world and was a good Christian. I think he was a fantastic guy."
In addition to Trump, dignitaries from around the globe are arriving in Rome. King Abdallah II of Jordan, Queen Rania, and Queen Mary of Denmark were among the first to arrive at Fiumicino Airport on April 25, 2025. French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also made their way to the Vatican, with Starmer visiting Meloni at Palazzo Chigi prior to the funeral.
The funeral procession to Santa Maria Maggiore is expected to take just over an hour, as it will proceed at a slow pace to allow mourners to pay their last respects. The procession will feature a vehicle that allows visibility of the coffin, ensuring that Pope Francis’s final journey is a moment of connection for the public.
Security measures are being heightened in anticipation of the large crowds expected for the funeral, with approximately 4,000 law enforcement officers deployed to ensure safety. The city of Rome is preparing for around 200,000 attendees at the funeral, with extensive road closures and security checkpoints in place.
As preparations continue, the closing of Pope Francis's coffin took place on April 25, 2025, from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, attended by family members. The 'Rogito' document, summarizing his life and works, was read and placed inside the coffin during the ceremony. This private event marked a significant moment as the Vatican prepares for the public farewell.
In a statement regarding the late Pope's health, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who was part of the medical team that treated Pope Francis, confirmed that the Pope did not experience any respiratory crisis before his death. Alfieri arrived at Santa Marta around 6:20 AM on the day of the Pope's passing and found him in a coma, with clear lungs and no signs of respiratory distress.
As the world watches, the funeral of Pope Francis will not only be a moment of mourning but also a celebration of his legacy. The pontiff, known for his humility and outreach to the marginalized, will be remembered for his efforts to promote peace and compassion across the globe.
In light of the significant international interest, 2,700 journalists have been accredited to cover the funeral and the subsequent conclave, which is set to begin between May 5 and May 10, 2025. The conclave will elect the next pope, continuing the legacy of leadership established by Pope Francis.
As the event draws near, many are reflecting on the impact of Pope Francis’s teachings and the future of the Catholic Church. His call for unity and compassion resonates deeply as the world grapples with various crises.
In conclusion, the funeral of Pope Francis promises to be a historic event, bringing together leaders and citizens alike to honor a man who dedicated his life to serving others. As the faithful gather in St. Peter's Square, they will not only bid farewell to a beloved leader but also reaffirm their commitment to the values he championed throughout his papacy.
