The world is preparing to bid farewell to a deeply revered spiritual leader. Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City. As the Vatican sets the stage for a historic farewell, world leaders and millions of Catholics brace for a momentous occasion that will echo through the halls of history.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: the funeral arrangements, what Pope Francis stood for, who’s attending, and how this moment impacts the global religious and political landscape.
2. The Passing of Pope Francis: A Nation in Mourning
Pope Francis died at his residence in Domus Sanctae Marthae after suffering a stroke that led to heart failure. The Vatican confirmed the death shortly after midnight, sparking a wave of grief across the world.
Known for his humility, compassion, and progressive stance on many social issues, Pope Francis was a reformer who pushed the Catholic Church into modern discourse. From climate change advocacy to support for the marginalized, his papacy marked a bold shift from tradition while still holding onto core Christian values.
Major media outlets such as BBC, Reuters, and Vatican News have been closely covering the events since his passing.
3. When and Where: Funeral Date, Time, and Venue
The official funeral of Pope Francis will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. local time (0800 GMT) in St. Peter’s Square. The Mass will be officiated by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals.
Public viewing of the late pope’s body will begin on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, inside St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing pilgrims from around the globe to pay their last respects.
This grand liturgical ceremony is expected to be one of the most attended papal funerals in modern history, reflecting the immense impact Pope Francis had during his 12-year reign.
4. What Happens After the Funeral: Novendiali and the Papal Conclave
Following the funeral, the Vatican will observe a nine-day mourning period known as “novendiali.” Each day will involve a special Mass and prayer service in honor of Pope Francis.
After novendiali concludes, the College of Cardinals will begin preparations for a conclave, a closed-door voting session inside the Sistine Chapel, where they will elect the next pope.
Pope Francis’ passing has accelerated speculation about who his successor might be, with Cardinals from Africa, Latin America, and Asia seen as possible frontrunners.
5. Where Will Pope Francis Be Buried?
Honoring his personal wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, rather than the traditional tombs beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
This decision underscores his lifelong devotion to the Virgin Mary and his love for simplicity. The burial site has long been a place of pilgrimage and now will become a permanent resting place for a man known as the “People’s Pope.
6. World Leaders Set to Attend
The funeral of Pope Francis is attracting a who’s who of global leadership:
- U.S. President Donald Trump
- Argentine President Javier Milei
- French President Emmanuel Macron
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Heads of state, royalty, and religious figures from all faiths will also be in attendance, making this event not just a religious ceremony but a major global summit of remembrance and reflection.
7. How the World Is Reacting
From candlelit vigils in Buenos Aires to mass celebrations in Manila, the world is mourning and remembering Pope Francis. Social media is flooded with tributes, hashtags like #FarewellFrancis and #PopeFrancisLegacy trending across multiple platforms.
Churches around the world are hosting memorial services and special Masses to celebrate his legacy of compassion, unity, and reform.
Organizations like Catholic Relief Services and Caritas International have issued statements praising his tireless humanitarian work.
8. A Look Back: Pope Francis’ Papacy and Legacy
Elected in 2013 as the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope, Pope Francis broke barriers and became a symbol of hope, especially for the world’s poorest. He took on issues like:
- Climate change (Laudato si’)
- Poverty alleviation
- LGBTQ+ inclusion
- Church transparency and reform
His 12-year reign was marked by both celebration and controversy, but few would dispute his influence in reshaping the Vatican for a new age.
9. Live Coverage and How to Participate
For those who wish to attend virtually or follow updates:
- Live stream: Vatican Media
- Public viewing in Rome: Begins Wednesday, April 23, 2025
- Social media: Follow hashtags like #PopeFrancisFuneral
Pilgrims can also access travel updates, event schedules, and safety guidelines through the Vatican Tourist Office and major embassies in Rome.
Conclusion
The passing of Pope Francis marks the end of an era and the beginning of a critical transition for the Roman Catholic Church. As the world gathers to honor his life this Saturday, his legacy of faith, justice, and mercy continues to inspire millions. Whether you’re Catholic or not, his message of compassion and global responsibility leaves a mark that will endure for generations.
FAQs
1. What time is Pope Francis’ funeral?
The funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. local time (0800 GMT).
2. Who is leading the funeral Mass?
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals.
3. Will the funeral be televised or live-streamed?
Yes, it will be live-streamed on Vatican Media and major global news networks.
4. Where will Pope Francis be buried?
He will be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.
5. When will the next pope be elected?
After the nine-day novendiali period, a conclave will be held by the College of Cardinals.
