Pope Francis’ Funeral To Be Held On Saturday – Vatican

Pope Francis’s funeral will take place on Saturday, the Vatican announced, following his death on Monday at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke.

Leaders from around the world, including United States President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, are expected to attend the ceremony to honor his legacy.

The funeral is scheduled for 10:00 am (0800 GMT) in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.

After the service, his wooden and zinc coffin will be taken inside the basilica before being moved to the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in Rome for burial — a break from tradition, as he will be the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican.

Pope Francis had recently returned from the hospital after battling double pneumonia but continued to make public appearances.

He looked visibly tired during Easter celebrations, but still greeted crowds from his popemobile.

The Vatican released images of his body lying in state at Casa Santa Marta, the residence where he lived and died. He wore red papal vestments, a mitre, and held a rosary.

His body will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday to lie in state for public viewing.

Tributes have poured in globally. Argentina has declared a week of mourning, while India announced three days of state mourning — a rare move for a foreign religious leader.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Bergoglio in Argentina, became the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church when he took over in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation.

He was known for his push for inclusiveness and reforms.

He supported migrants, spoke out on climate change and poverty, and tried to make the Church more open while maintaining its traditional stances on issues like abortion and celibacy.

Francis also took steps to clean up the Church’s finances and respond to abuse scandals by lifting secrecy rules and pushing for accountability — though critics say he could have done more.

In his final wishes, Pope Francis asked for a modest burial. His tomb will bear only his Latin name, “Franciscus”, reflecting his humble approach throughout his papacy.

The process to elect a new pope will begin soon, with cardinals under 80 eligible to vote in the conclave.

The Vatican confirmed that the late pope’s apartment has been sealed, following tradition.

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