Pope Francis' funeral is set for Saturday, following three days of public mourning. Observances are taking place globally, with many leaders preparing to attend the service that reflects his advocacy for the marginalized.
Global Leaders Prepare to Pay Tribute to Pope Francis as His Funeral Approaches
Global Leaders Prepare to Pay Tribute to Pope Francis as His Funeral Approaches
Pope Francis will lie in state at the Vatican ahead of his funeral, with world leaders, including President Trump and President Zelensky, expected to attend.
In Vatican City, preparations are underway for the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. His body will lie in state at St. Peter's Basilica starting Wednesday, allowing mourners to pay their respects until the funeral service on Saturday. President Trump and Ukraine's President Zelensky are among the distinguished attendees anticipated for the funeral, which promises to be a significant event amid global political tumult.
The ceremonies will honor Francis' humble approach to the papacy, reflecting his efforts to connect with those on the margins, including migrants and the impoverished. His funeral will feature simpler rituals in line with the pope’s own style, as directed in last year’s guidelines. Throughout his papacy, Francis challenged world leaders over social justice issues, which adds a poignant note to the attendance of those whom he openly critiqued.
The Vatican has announced memorial services to be held internationally, with the flags at governmental buildings of multiple nations lowered in mourning. Countries like Brazil, Italy, and Argentina are observing days of official mourning, reflecting Francis' impact on the Catholic Church and the world at large.
As the College of Cardinals prepares to meet for the conclave to select the next pope, this transitional moment carries significant weight amid discussions of Francis’ legacy and the future of the Catholic Church, along with arrangements for a new leadership structure. The discussions around the conclave will take place just days after the funeral, marking a period of significant change for the 1.3 billion adherents of the faith.
Pope Francis chose St. Mary Major Basilica as his final resting place, with a request for a simple tomb, embodying his values of humility and accessibility. As the funeral nears, reflections on his contributions and challenges during his papacy continue to resonate deeply within and beyond Vatican walls, with millions around the world remembering his advocacy for social justice and peace.
