Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following a prolonged hospitalization due to respiratory issues that culminated in bilateral pneumonia. His death marked the end of a papacy characterized by a commitment to social justice and a deep concern for the marginalized. As the world mourns, preparations are underway for his funeral, which will take place on April 26, 2025, at the Church of Santa María la Mayor in Rome, a location chosen by the pontiff himself due to his profound devotion to the Virgin Mary.
After 38 days in the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he was treated for his health complications, the Pope's body was made available for public viewing at the Basilica of San Pedro. Over the past few days, thousands of faithful have queued to pay their last respects, with the chapel closing at 7:00 PM on April 25, after more than 250,000 visitors had paid homage.
The funeral service is scheduled to commence at 10:00 AM local time on April 26, coinciding with the traditional Catholic liturgy. This ceremony is expected to attract around 200,000 attendees, including numerous world leaders, such as U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Notably absent will be Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, though King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia will represent Spain.
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis requested a simpler burial arrangement. He will be placed in a wooden coffin, eschewing the customary triple coffin of cypress, lead, and oak. This decision reflects his humble lifestyle and desire for a funeral that aligns with his personal values. The coffin will be sealed in a ceremony led by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, the camerlengo, at 8:00 PM on April 25.
The funeral procession will traverse a six-kilometer route through the heart of Rome, passing iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forums, before concluding at the Basilica of Santa María la Mayor, where he will be laid to rest. This marks a significant moment in history as it is the first time since Pope Leo XIII in 1903 that a Pope will be buried outside the Vatican.
In accordance with the Pope's wishes, the burial will take place on the ground level, with a simple inscription reading "Franciscus". This choice emphasizes his connection to the people and his commitment to humility, as he often expressed during his papacy. The Vatican has released images of the tomb, which will be located in the basilica where the Pope frequently prayed.
As the funeral approaches, security measures in Rome have intensified, with the city effectively on lockdown to accommodate the influx of dignitaries and mourners. The Italian government is preparing to receive 130 official delegations from around the world, including 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs.
In the days leading up to the funeral, the College of Cardinals has convened multiple times to discuss the future of the Catholic Church following the Pope's death. The conclave, set to take place in early May, will see 133 cardinals gather to elect his successor. This transition period has sparked discussions within the Church about its direction, with some advocating for continuity in the Pope's reformist agenda, while others call for a return to more traditional practices.
As the world reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, his commitment to addressing global challenges such as inequality, environmental degradation, and the plight of refugees will be remembered. His passing not only marks the end of a significant chapter in the Church's history but also raises questions about its future direction.
During his papacy, Francis consistently emphasized the importance of reaching out to the marginalized and advocating for social justice, often using the term "periphery" to describe those who are left behind in society. His approach was seen as a departure from the Eurocentric focus of previous popes, aiming to make the Church more inclusive and globally minded.
Following the funeral, a period of nine days of mourning, known as Novendiales, will commence, during which daily masses will be held in memory of the late Pope. This period is a traditional part of the Catholic mourning process, allowing the faithful to reflect on the life and contributions of the pontiff.
The Vatican has confirmed that the funeral will be broadcast live, allowing millions around the world to participate in this momentous occasion. Major networks, including TVE in Spain and various Catholic media outlets, will provide coverage of the event.
In the days leading up to the funeral, many have expressed their sorrow and gratitude for the Pope's service. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, his humility, and his unwavering commitment to social issues have left an indelible mark on the Church and the world.
As preparations continue for the funeral of Pope Francis, the global community stands united in remembrance of a leader who sought to bring compassion and understanding to a world often divided by conflict and strife. His legacy will undoubtedly influence the upcoming conclave and the future of the Catholic Church.
