A Humble Farewell: Pope Francis's Funeral and Final Wishes
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 due to a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. His death marked the end of a 12-year papacy characterized by humility, reform, and a deep commitment to social justice.Latest news & breaking headlines+6People.com+6People.
Funeral Details
The funeral Mass for Pope Francis is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the ceremony. The service will include the Ultima commendatio and Valedictio rites, traditional prayers entrusting the pope to God .Al Jazeera+7People.com+7Catholic News Agency+7
Following the Mass, Pope Francis's body will be taken into St. Peter’s Basilica before being transferred to the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome for burial .ABC News+3People.com+3Catholic News Agency+3
Final Wishes and Burial
In a departure from centuries of tradition, Pope Francis chose to be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary ... rather than in St. Peter’s Basilica. His decision reflects his profound devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly the icon of Salus Populi Romani housed in the basilica. He expressed this wish as early as 2015 and reiterated it in his final testament, specifying a desire for a simple tomb in the side aisle between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel .People.com+1People.com+1Wikip
Pope Francis also requested a modest funeral, opting for a single wooden coffin lined with zinc, foregoing the traditional triple coffins of cypress, lead, and oak. He wished for his body to lie in state in a simple coffin without being placed on an elevated platform, emphasizing his role as a humble servant of God rather than a figure of worldly power .Latest news & breaking headlines+7Wikipedia+7People.
Public Viewing and Attendance
The pope's body lies in state at St. Peter’s Basilica from April 23 to April 25, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. The funeral is expected to draw numerous world leaders and dignitaries, including U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Prince William representing King Charles .Catholic News Agency+3The Guardian+3People.com+3People.
A Legacy of Humility
Pope Francis's choices for his funeral and burial are consistent with his lifelong emphasis on humility, simplicity, and service. By breaking with certain traditions, he aimed to underscore the spiritual essence of his role and his dedication to the principles of the Church.
As the Church enters the nine-day mourning period known as Novendiale, preparations begin for the conclave that will elect his successor. Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide the faithful around the world.Wikipedia+3People.com+3W