Pope Francis will be laid to rest in a simplified ceremony at St. Peter's Basilica, reflecting his humbleness. Memorial services are being held globally, with flags at half-mast in several countries. The selection process for his successor is expected to begin post-funeral.
Pope Francis' Funeral Planned as Global Mourning Begins
Pope Francis' Funeral Planned as Global Mourning Begins
The Vatican announces a modest funeral for Pope Francis, with memorial services held worldwide as nations declare mourning periods for the late pontiff.
Pope Francis’ funeral is set for Saturday at St. Peter's Basilica, breaking from tradition to reflect his simpler approach during his papacy. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re will lead the service, following guidelines established under Francis’ guidance. His body is currently resting in Casa Santa Marta, and will be processed to lie in state for three days.
Memorial masses have taken place globally, from Manila to Sydney, and nations such as Argentina and Brazil have instituted mourning periods. Political leaders, including President Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, plan to attend the funeral, highlighting Francis's global impact, despite political tensions he occasionally stirred, particularly concerning immigration and social issues.
As his legacy is remembered, the papacy prepares for a conclave to select a new pope among the 135 eligible cardinals. The Vatican has reported that Francis passed away from complications related to a stroke, modifying the church's directives in his later years towards acceptance and inclusivity, notably engaging with LGBTQ communities. In his will, he requested a simple burial in Santa Maria Maggiore, emblematic of his humble approach throughout his life.
Crowds have gathered worldwide to honor him, reflecting on his commitment to marginalized groups and issues like climate change, and signaling the pope's enduring influence beyond his tenure. Memorials continue to commemorate a leader who championed compassion and unity across faiths and borders.
Memorial masses have taken place globally, from Manila to Sydney, and nations such as Argentina and Brazil have instituted mourning periods. Political leaders, including President Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, plan to attend the funeral, highlighting Francis's global impact, despite political tensions he occasionally stirred, particularly concerning immigration and social issues.
As his legacy is remembered, the papacy prepares for a conclave to select a new pope among the 135 eligible cardinals. The Vatican has reported that Francis passed away from complications related to a stroke, modifying the church's directives in his later years towards acceptance and inclusivity, notably engaging with LGBTQ communities. In his will, he requested a simple burial in Santa Maria Maggiore, emblematic of his humble approach throughout his life.
Crowds have gathered worldwide to honor him, reflecting on his commitment to marginalized groups and issues like climate change, and signaling the pope's enduring influence beyond his tenure. Memorials continue to commemorate a leader who championed compassion and unity across faiths and borders.
