Following the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, his funeral will occur at 10:00 local time this Saturday, with public mourning opportunities beginning from Wednesday as tributes worldwide pour in.
Pope Francis's Final Farewell: Funeral Set for Saturday
Pope Francis's Final Farewell: Funeral Set for Saturday
The Vatican announces the timing of Pope Francis's funeral, scheduled for Saturday at St. Peter's Basilica.
Pope Francis is set to receive his final goodbyes this Saturday at 10:00 local time (08:00 GMT) in front of St. Peter's Basilica, as confirmed by the Vatican following a meeting of cardinals earlier this week. From Wednesday morning, his body will be displayed in an open casket at St. Peter's Basilica, allowing the public to pay their respects.
The late pontiff's body was previously at the Santa Marta residence, where he lived for the entirety of his twelve-year papacy. A farewell procession will commence on Wednesday at 09:00, led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who occupies the role of camerlengo, the individual responsible for Vatican duties during the papacy transition period. This procession will take place from Saint Martha's Square to St. Peter's Square, culminating with the Liturgy of the Word at the basilica.
In a departure from tradition, no private viewing will be held for cardinals, which was a request made by Pope Francis himself. The service on Saturday will be overseen by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, accompanied by numerous religious figures, including cardinals, archbishops, bishops, and priests from around the world. Attendees are expected to wear specific liturgical garments reflecting their ranks within the Church.
The service will conclude with a commendation and a valediction, marking the initiation of the nine days of official mourning for the pontiff. Following the funeral, Pope Francis will be transported to the St. Mary Major basilica for burial - a notable break from centuries of tradition, as he requested to be buried in a single wooden coffin rather than the customary three-tiered design typically reserved for popes.
Anticipation is building for the event, with heads of state and global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, confirming their attendance. A conclave is set to follow the funeral, where cardinals will gather to elect the new pope in the coming weeks.
The world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away due to a stroke just one day after leading an Easter address in front of thousands, a poignant reminder of his profound impact on the Catholic Church.
