Pope Francis to be Laid to Rest: Leaders Worldwide Prepare for Historic Funeral

As unique tributes pour in globally, Pope Francis' funeral will not only honor his life but also his impactful legacy as a social reformer and a voice for the voiceless.

Vatican City — The funeral for Pope Francis is set to take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at St. Peter's Basilica following a three-day public viewing of his body. World leaders, including President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, are preparing to attend the ceremony that symbolizes a poignant moment in history. The conclave for electing his successor will commence shortly after the funeral.

Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88, had firmly established a reputation for his humble approach to the papacy, often prioritizing the needs of the marginalized. He embodied a direct connection to the welfare of the poorest communities throughout his tenure, leaving a profound impact on global discourse around migration and social justice. As the Pope laid in state at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, the public responded with an outpouring of grief and remembrance across cities such as Manila, Buenos Aires, and Jerusalem, the Vatican confirmed.

The memorial services taking place across the globe reflect the resonance of his teachings, which emphasized compassion and social responsibility. In his will, published after his passing, Pope Francis requested a simple burial at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, symbolizing his desire for humility even in death.

The Vatican has shared details around the rituals for the funeral, with Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presiding over the ceremony as laid out by directives established under Francis’ leadership. The global response includes official mourning periods currently observed in countries like Italy, Brazil, and Argentina, affirming his notable status as a beloved leader.

Further complicating the context of the funeral is the attendance of global leaders who have found themselves at odds with the deceased pontiff during his papacy. Critics of Pope Francis, including Trump and Argentinian President Javier Milei, plan to pay their respects in a gathering that underscores the complexity of Francis’ legacy.

As the Vatican heads towards a new chapter without Francis, discussions around his impact, particularly on the L.G.B.T.Q. community and environmental issues, remain prominent among his followers and critics alike. The new pope will be tasked with navigating these legacies, potentially shaping the Catholic Church's future.

The proceedings ahead of the funeral promise to be both historic and symbolic, encapsulating a remarkable era defined by hope, compassion, and thorough reform. As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, many reflect on his profound ability to connect with the human experience and prompt larger conversations about equity and understanding.