Following the death of Pope Francis, whose funeral will take place Saturday, global leaders and citizens mourn his legacy characterized by humility and compassion while the Catholic Church gears up for the significant task of choosing his successor.
Pope Francis Funeral Plans Unveiled as Global Mourning Begins
Pope Francis Funeral Plans Unveiled as Global Mourning Begins
Pope Francis' funeral will be a simplified event, reflecting his humble nature. Leaders worldwide pay respects as the Catholic Church prepares for a new papal conclave.
April 22, 2025, 6:36 a.m. ET — As the world reacts to the passing of Pope Francis, his funeral is set for Saturday at 10 a.m. in Vatican City, adhering to the modest style he championed throughout his life. The ceremony, which aims to embody the simplicity he valued, comes after Francis deviated from traditional practices, opting for a single coffin for interment instead of the customary nested coffins.
Cardinals from around the globe began arriving at the Vatican shortly after the announcement of Francis's death at 88 years old. They convened at a meeting led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re to discuss funeral arrangements and preparations for the forthcoming conclave that will elect the new pope. In keeping with the established timeline, Cardinal Re confirmed that Francis's remains will be displayed in St. Peter's Basilica on Wednesday, paving the way for the burial rituals, which typically span several days.
Attendees at the upcoming funeral will include political and religious figures, but the dynamics have shifted significantly since Francis's elevation to the papacy in 2013. Though some leaders who clashed with him, such as former President Trump, plan to attend, others represent a changing landscape where progressive allies have fallen from grace. This funeral will likely see a resurgence of conservative voices within the church, which may influence their selection of a successor.
Francis, known for his expansive outreach, particularly to marginalized communities, was honored by various nations with declarations of mourning. Flags have been lowered and memorial services held in countries around the world, highlighting the impact of his message of love and inclusivity.
In Caracas, Venezuela, where many mourners gathered to remember the pontiff, Msgr. Alberto Ortega Martin praised him as a shepherd who walked alongside his people and a beacon of compassion for the downtrodden. Reflecting on his legacy, communities expressed hope that his successor will continue to prioritize openness and engagement with those outside the church's walls.
As the church braced for the next phase of leadership, discussions surrounding potential candidates have emerged, with observers noting that the selection could redefine the future of the Catholic Church. Speculation is rife regarding who may replace Francis; will they uphold his progressive ideals, or steer the church back towards conservatism?
Among the mourners, China expressed intentions to improve its relationship with the Vatican, suggesting a continuity in dialogues initiated by Francis. In acknowledgment of his efforts, officials emphasized their desire to maintain constructive ties.
The world watches closely as the funeral approaches and cardinals prepare for the significant task of choosing a new leader for the Roman Catholic Church, following in the footsteps of the pontiff who undoubtedly left an indelible mark on billions around the globe.
Cardinals from around the globe began arriving at the Vatican shortly after the announcement of Francis's death at 88 years old. They convened at a meeting led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re to discuss funeral arrangements and preparations for the forthcoming conclave that will elect the new pope. In keeping with the established timeline, Cardinal Re confirmed that Francis's remains will be displayed in St. Peter's Basilica on Wednesday, paving the way for the burial rituals, which typically span several days.
Attendees at the upcoming funeral will include political and religious figures, but the dynamics have shifted significantly since Francis's elevation to the papacy in 2013. Though some leaders who clashed with him, such as former President Trump, plan to attend, others represent a changing landscape where progressive allies have fallen from grace. This funeral will likely see a resurgence of conservative voices within the church, which may influence their selection of a successor.
Francis, known for his expansive outreach, particularly to marginalized communities, was honored by various nations with declarations of mourning. Flags have been lowered and memorial services held in countries around the world, highlighting the impact of his message of love and inclusivity.
In Caracas, Venezuela, where many mourners gathered to remember the pontiff, Msgr. Alberto Ortega Martin praised him as a shepherd who walked alongside his people and a beacon of compassion for the downtrodden. Reflecting on his legacy, communities expressed hope that his successor will continue to prioritize openness and engagement with those outside the church's walls.
As the church braced for the next phase of leadership, discussions surrounding potential candidates have emerged, with observers noting that the selection could redefine the future of the Catholic Church. Speculation is rife regarding who may replace Francis; will they uphold his progressive ideals, or steer the church back towards conservatism?
Among the mourners, China expressed intentions to improve its relationship with the Vatican, suggesting a continuity in dialogues initiated by Francis. In acknowledgment of his efforts, officials emphasized their desire to maintain constructive ties.
The world watches closely as the funeral approaches and cardinals prepare for the significant task of choosing a new leader for the Roman Catholic Church, following in the footsteps of the pontiff who undoubtedly left an indelible mark on billions around the globe.
