VATICAN CITY — The Vatican has announced that the funeral of Pope Francis will take place this Saturday, April 26, in St. Peter’s Square. The solemn event is expected to gather global leaders and faithful from around the world.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at age 88, following a stroke and cardiac arrest. His death came just weeks after recovering from a serious bout of pneumonia. The Argentine-born pontiff, known as the first Latin American pope, led the Church for 12 years with a focus on reform, compassion, and inclusivity.
The Vatican released images of the late pope lying in a wooden casket in his Santa Marta residence, flanked by Swiss Guards. His body will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, April 23, at 9:00 a.m. for public viewing.
The funeral will be held on Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 a.m. local time (0800 GMT). Among the dignitaries expected are U.S. President Donald Trump, Argentine President Javier Milei, Brazil’s Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis requested burial at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome instead of St. Peter’s Basilica.
As per Church custom, the transition rituals are underway—including the ceremonial breaking of the “Fisherman’s Ring” and papal seal. A conclave to elect his successor will begin between May 6 and May 11, involving 135 cardinal electors.
While there’s no clear frontrunner, Pope Francis appointed around 80% of the cardinals eligible to vote, possibly shaping the direction of the next papacy in line with his progressive vision.