Pope Francis's funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. local time (4 a.m. Eastern) in St. Peter's Square in Vatican City, marking a significant moment for the Catholic Church and the world. The beloved pontiff, who led the Roman Catholic Church for 12 years, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following a stroke. His life was characterized by humility and outreach to diverse communities, and these themes will resonate throughout the funeral proceedings.
As the day approaches, preparations are underway for what is expected to be a grand yet solemn ceremony. Tens of thousands of mourners, many traveling from around the globe, are expected to gather in St. Peter's Square. The Vatican has confirmed that more than 130 foreign delegations will be in attendance, including approximately 50 heads of state and 10 reigning sovereigns. Notable figures such as U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and former President Joe Biden are anticipated to pay their final respects.
The funeral, known as Missa poenitentialis, will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the college of cardinals. The outdoor mass will begin at 10 a.m. local time, with coverage starting earlier for those unable to attend in person. ABC News will commence its live coverage at 3:30 a.m. ET, while other networks, including the BBC and Sky News, will also provide extensive broadcasts.
In an unprecedented move, Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, breaking a 120-year tradition of papal burials occurring within Vatican grounds. This choice reflects his desire for simplicity and humility, as he specified in his final testament that he wished to be buried “in the ground, without particular decoration.” His body will be placed in a simple cypress-wood coffin, which will then be encased in two additional coffins made of different woods.
Following the funeral mass, Francis's coffin will be transported in procession to the basilica, where he will lie in rest. The public will be able to visit his tomb starting Sunday morning, April 27, 2025. In a poignant symbol of his papacy, which often emphasized compassion for the marginalized, the funeral will include participants from all walks of life, including convicts and migrants, as they usher him to his final resting place.
As the day unfolds, security measures are being heightened across Rome. Authorities have implemented one of the largest security operations in the city's recent history, deploying 4,000 police officers, counter-drone units, and fighter jets to enforce a strict no-fly zone over the area. The Vatican's Swiss Guard, known for their ceremonial role, will also assist in securing the event. The prefect of Rome, Lamberto Giannini, assured that the security efforts are prepared to ensure a serene atmosphere for the mourners.
In the days leading up to the funeral, Pope Francis's body lay in state at St. Peter's Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. Reports indicate that over 250,000 people visited the late pontiff during this period, highlighting the profound impact he had on countless lives. As the crowds gathered, many expressed their sorrow and gratitude for his leadership, which was marked by a focus on social justice and interfaith dialogue.
In addition to the global leaders and dignitaries expected at the funeral, the ceremony will also witness the presence of cardinals, bishops, and thousands of priests. Estimates suggest that around 220 cardinals and 750 bishops will be near the altar, with over 4,000 other priests joining the congregation in St. Peter's Square.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, various events and activities across Italy have been postponed in observance of the funeral. Serie A has rescheduled its fixtures, and other sporting events, including Italy's Women's Six Nations match against Wales, have also been affected. This reflects the widespread respect and recognition for the late pope's contributions to society.
The funeral of Pope Francis is not only a farewell to a beloved leader but also a moment for reflection on his legacy. His commitment to addressing issues such as poverty, migration, and climate change resonated with many and will continue to inspire future generations. As the Catholic faithful and world leaders gather to honor his memory, the ceremony will undoubtedly be a testament to his enduring influence.
As the clock ticks down to the funeral, the atmosphere in Vatican City is charged with emotion. People line the streets, some having camped out overnight to secure a spot to witness the procession. The sense of community and shared grief is palpable, with attendees from diverse backgrounds coming together to celebrate the life of a man who sought to bridge divides and promote understanding.
In the days following the funeral, the conclave to select a new pope will take place, typically occurring 15 to 20 days after the death of a pontiff. The exact date will be determined by the cardinals after the ceremony. Until then, the world will remember Pope Francis for his unique approach to leadership and his unwavering dedication to the teachings of compassion and humility.
