Pope Francis’s Funeral Set for Saturday as World Leaders Confirm Attendance
The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis’s funeral will take place on Saturday at 10:00 am (0800 GMT) in St Peter’s Square, following his death on Monday at age 88 after suffering a stroke. His coffin, constructed of wood and zinc per his wishes, will then be moved to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome for burial, making him the first pope in over a century to be laid to rest outside the Vatican.
The announcement came during the first general congregation of cardinals, marking the start of the traditional process to elect a new pontiff within the next three weeks. Cardinals under the age of 80 will participate in the conclave.
Tributes have poured in globally for the Argentine pontiff, born Jorge Bergoglio, known for his progressive stance, humility, and efforts to reform the Catholic Church. His 12-year papacy focused on inclusion, social justice, environmental advocacy, and transparency in Church governance.
Images of Pope Francis lying in an open coffin at Casa Santa Marta, where he lived and died, were released ahead of the transfer of his body to St Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, where he will lie in state.
Among the world leaders expected to attend the funeral are former U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Argentina has declared a week of national mourning, while India has announced three days of state mourning—an uncommon gesture for a foreign religious figure.
During his papacy, Pope Francis tackled tough issues, including child abuse scandals, Vatican financial reform, and the role of women in the Church. He abolished pontifical secrecy in abuse cases and championed the marginalised, but critics argue some reforms did not go far enough.
Despite recent hospitalisations and health struggles, Francis remained active until his final days, appearing at Easter celebrations just one day before his passing.
As the world mourns, thousands have gathered in St Peter’s Square, lighting candles and offering prayers in memory of a pope many saw as a compassionate and transformative leader.
