The funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 89, will follow time-honored customs, allowing the faithful to pay their respects over several days. Although the exact schedule has yet to be revealed, the ceremony will commence with official notifications from the Vatican’s health department to confirm his death. The camerlengo, the official responsible for managing the Vatican until a new pope is elected, will remove the pontiff's papal ring, a significant symbolic gesture marking the end of Francis' papacy.
Pope Francis: A Reflection on His Final Days and Legacy
Pope Francis: A Reflection on His Final Days and Legacy
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, we explore the upcoming traditions and significance surrounding his funeral.
His body, dressed in traditional papal vestments and adorned with a miter, will be transported to his private chapel before lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, creating an opportunity for global mourners to honor him. Invitations will be extended to the 252 cardinals worldwide, who will gather in Rome not only to pay their respects but also to partake in the election of his successor.
Traditionally hosted between the fourth and the sixth day after his death, the funeral mass will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re at St. Peter's Basilica, where dignitaries, leaders, and crowds of the faithful are expected to gather. In recent changes, Francis opted for a more simplified approach to his funeral arrangements by choosing a single wooden coffin lined in zinc, deviating from the three-coffin tradition upheld by his predecessors.
The Vatican and its surrounding areas are set to witness a significant turnout, reminiscent of past papal funerals. In contrast to the lush crowds that mourned Pope John Paul II in 2005, Pope Francis will have a unique memorial service reflective of his doctrine and pastoral approach, despite the lesser numbers associated with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's passing in 2022.
Francis, who served as an inspiration to countless individuals during his papacy, will be remembered not only for his words but also for his unique approach to leadership and service throughout his life.
Gaia Pianigiani is a reporter based in Italy, covering breaking news across Italy and Europe.
Traditionally hosted between the fourth and the sixth day after his death, the funeral mass will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re at St. Peter's Basilica, where dignitaries, leaders, and crowds of the faithful are expected to gather. In recent changes, Francis opted for a more simplified approach to his funeral arrangements by choosing a single wooden coffin lined in zinc, deviating from the three-coffin tradition upheld by his predecessors.
The Vatican and its surrounding areas are set to witness a significant turnout, reminiscent of past papal funerals. In contrast to the lush crowds that mourned Pope John Paul II in 2005, Pope Francis will have a unique memorial service reflective of his doctrine and pastoral approach, despite the lesser numbers associated with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's passing in 2022.
Francis, who served as an inspiration to countless individuals during his papacy, will be remembered not only for his words but also for his unique approach to leadership and service throughout his life.
Gaia Pianigiani is a reporter based in Italy, covering breaking news across Italy and Europe.
