Pope Francis’ Funeral Scheduled at St. Peter’s Basilica
The Vatican has announced that the funeral for Pope Francis will take place at 10 a.m. local time (4 a.m. EDT) on Saturday, following a decision made by the College of Cardinals gathered at its headquarters in Rome. This comes after the pope’s passing on Monday morning at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke and heart failure.
Coffin Procession and Viewing
On Wednesday morning, the pope’s coffin will be transported in a solemn procession from his residence at Casa Santa Marta, where he spent his final moments. The procession will be attended by cardinals and other church officials, paying tribute to the late pontiff.
The pope’s body was initially laid to rest in a coffin within the chapel of his residence, and the Vatican has released images showing him in a red robe, wearing the papal mitre, with a rosary clasped in his hands. A formal Confirmation of the Pope’s Death was conducted, during which prayers were offered over his body.
Funeral Structure and Attendees
The funeral ceremony will include three key components: the preparation of the body, the public viewing, and the burial. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the interim administrator of the Vatican, is set to preside over the procession and the rituals that follow.
The Vatican has indicated that the event will welcome a diverse assembly of clergy, including patriarchs, cardinals, archbishops, bishops, and priests from around the globe, as well as numerous world leaders and dignitaries. Notable attendees will include former President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and French President Emmanuel Macron. China’s government has not yet confirmed which officials will attend.
Burial Plans Following the Funeral
After the conclusion of the Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis’ coffin will be taken to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, located approximately four miles from the Vatican, for burial. The late pontiff chose this site as his resting place, often visiting it for prayer throughout his twelve-year tenure as pope.
The Papal Conclave
Within 15 to 20 days following Pope Francis’ death, the Cardinal Electors will assemble at the Vatican to begin the conclave process to elect his successor. Only those cardinals under the age of 80—approximately 135 in total—are eligible to participate in this crucial voting process.
The electors will gather in the Sistine Chapel, casting votes until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority. The results of each round are indicated by the color of smoke emitted from the incense burner—black for no decision and white to announce the election of a new pope.