In a significant moment for the Catholic Church and the global community, Pope Francis' funeral is set for Saturday, drawing dignitaries and religious leaders from around the world. His passing on Easter Monday sparked a wave of tributes as thousands flock to honor his legacy of humility and advocacy.
Pope Francis to Be Remembered in Global Mourning Ahead of Simple Funeral

Pope Francis to Be Remembered in Global Mourning Ahead of Simple Funeral
World leaders, including Presidents Trump and Zelensky, plan to attend the memorial of Pope Francis, who will lie in state for three days before his funeral on Saturday.
Pope Francis, the first South American pontiff, left behind a profound legacy characterized by compassion for marginalized communities and an unwavering commitment to human rights. As the date of his funeral approaches, security preparations intensify to accommodate the many world leaders expected to attend—including former President Donald Trump and current President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky.
On Tuesday, Pope Francis' body was laid to rest in his residence, Casa Santa Marta, dressed in red and white vestments and holding a rosary. It will be displayed for public viewing starting Wednesday at St. Peter’s Basilica. A simpler burial method, reflective of the pope's lifelong commitment to humility, will be adhered to and led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
The week of mourning in Francis' honor has seen memorial services across the globe, including ceremonies in Sydney and major cathedrals in the Philippines. Numerous countries, including Italy and Argentina, have declared days of official mourning.
Political and religious figures alike reflect on Francis’ brand of leadership, which championed the rights of the downtrodden. As the preparation for selecting his successor begins, cardinals from around the world have begun gathering in the Vatican, with a conclave scheduled to commence shortly after the funeral.
In his will, Pope Francis expressed a wish for simplicity in death, requesting to be buried in an undecorated tomb at St. Mary Major Basilica in Rome, where he frequented during his papacy. His funeral service is expected to mirror the simplicity and authenticity that defined his leadership style.
As the Catholic community and followers worldwide honor his contributions, discussions about his legacy continue to evolve, grounded in the impact of his papacy on both a spiritual and global scale.
On Tuesday, Pope Francis' body was laid to rest in his residence, Casa Santa Marta, dressed in red and white vestments and holding a rosary. It will be displayed for public viewing starting Wednesday at St. Peter’s Basilica. A simpler burial method, reflective of the pope's lifelong commitment to humility, will be adhered to and led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
The week of mourning in Francis' honor has seen memorial services across the globe, including ceremonies in Sydney and major cathedrals in the Philippines. Numerous countries, including Italy and Argentina, have declared days of official mourning.
Political and religious figures alike reflect on Francis’ brand of leadership, which championed the rights of the downtrodden. As the preparation for selecting his successor begins, cardinals from around the world have begun gathering in the Vatican, with a conclave scheduled to commence shortly after the funeral.
In his will, Pope Francis expressed a wish for simplicity in death, requesting to be buried in an undecorated tomb at St. Mary Major Basilica in Rome, where he frequented during his papacy. His funeral service is expected to mirror the simplicity and authenticity that defined his leadership style.
As the Catholic community and followers worldwide honor his contributions, discussions about his legacy continue to evolve, grounded in the impact of his papacy on both a spiritual and global scale.