Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, will be honored with a humble funeral service on Saturday at St. Peter’s Basilica, marking a departure from traditional Vatican practices. The ceremony will reflect the pontiff’s approach during his papacy, emphasizing inclusivity and compassion, while world leaders prepare to pay their respects.
Pope Francis’ Funeral Arrangements Reflect His Humble Legacy
Pope Francis’ Funeral Arrangements Reflect His Humble Legacy
The Vatican announces plans for Pope Francis' funeral on Saturday, showcasing the pontiff's preference for simplicity and modesty in his final rites.
April 22, 2025, 1:29 p.m. ET
Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, as announced by the Vatican on Tuesday. This service will notably feature simpler rituals, consistent with the modest style that was a hallmark of Francis’ papacy. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the ceremony, which will follow guidelines established under Francis’ guidance.
On Tuesday, the pope’s body was laid to rest at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, adorned in red and white vestments while holding a rosary. The coffin is scheduled to be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing mourners to visit and pay their respects for three days leading up to the funeral. International memorial Masses are also being held in locations such as Sydney and Manila, with flags flying at half-staff in several countries including the pope's homeland of Argentina.
World leaders are set to attend the funeral, including political figures with whom Francis has had tense relationships due to his candid views on social issues. Notably, this will be former President Trump’s first foreign visit of his current term. Meanwhile, a conclave will soon be convened to select the next pope, necessitated by Francis’ death from a cerebral stroke, which brought about considerable public mourning and reflection.
In his will, Francis expressed a desire for simplicity in death, requesting to be buried in an undecorated tomb at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major. Memories of his actions, advocacy for the marginalized, and unique perspectives on global issues will significantly shape how he is remembered.
As the Vatican prepares for the funeral and the subsequent conclave to elect his successor, the pontiff’s legacy—inclusive, reformative, and personal—whether in life or death, continues to resonate deeply across the global Catholic community.
Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, as announced by the Vatican on Tuesday. This service will notably feature simpler rituals, consistent with the modest style that was a hallmark of Francis’ papacy. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the ceremony, which will follow guidelines established under Francis’ guidance.
On Tuesday, the pope’s body was laid to rest at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, adorned in red and white vestments while holding a rosary. The coffin is scheduled to be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing mourners to visit and pay their respects for three days leading up to the funeral. International memorial Masses are also being held in locations such as Sydney and Manila, with flags flying at half-staff in several countries including the pope's homeland of Argentina.
World leaders are set to attend the funeral, including political figures with whom Francis has had tense relationships due to his candid views on social issues. Notably, this will be former President Trump’s first foreign visit of his current term. Meanwhile, a conclave will soon be convened to select the next pope, necessitated by Francis’ death from a cerebral stroke, which brought about considerable public mourning and reflection.
In his will, Francis expressed a desire for simplicity in death, requesting to be buried in an undecorated tomb at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major. Memories of his actions, advocacy for the marginalized, and unique perspectives on global issues will significantly shape how he is remembered.
As the Vatican prepares for the funeral and the subsequent conclave to elect his successor, the pontiff’s legacy—inclusive, reformative, and personal—whether in life or death, continues to resonate deeply across the global Catholic community.
