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Pope Francis’ Tomb Now Open to Pilgrims and Visitors | WATCH

April 27, 2025, 1:36 pm

Pope Francis’s tomb at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica has opened to the public, providing both pilgrims and tourists with an opportunity to visit this historic site and pay respects. Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s four large papal basilicas, now receives visitors to the tomb between the Pauline and Sforza Chapels, locations Pope Francis held dear during his papacy.

His interment here highlights his dedication to humility and the Virgin Mary. The tomb, demarcated by a modest marble tablet and a miniature crucifix, is a reflection site and an inspiration spot. People can pay tribute to his legacy of service, kindness, and humility as they learn about the history behind the basilica and Pope Francis’s contributions to the Catholic Church.

Description of the Tomb

Pope Francis’s tomb features a simple marble slab. The inscription “Franciscus” clearly reflects his preference for simplicity and humility. This contrasts sharply with the grandeur of typical papal funerals.

A small crucifix hangs above the tomb, symbolizing his strong faith. A spotlight gently illuminates the tomb, casting a peaceful glow over the area. Visitors often pray the rosary or leave white roses, honoring his legacy of service and compassion.

Importance of the Venue

Santa Maria Maggiore is also very special for Pope Francis. It is where he first publicly visited as pope, demonstrating his initial relationship with the basilica. It was also where he made his last public visit, before passing away, which makes his burial more special.

By opting for Santa Maria Maggiore instead of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis reaffirmed his commitment to simplicity and signalled his affection for the Virgin Mary, after whom the basilica has been named.

Pilgrimage Site and Place of Contemplation

Pope Francis’s grave will become a huge pilgrim site. Individuals from various parts of the globe, not only Catholics but also his admirers, will visit to look back on his legacy. Prayers will be said by some, while others will sit silently in contemplation.

The grave reminds one of his dedication all his life towards compassion, one-ness, and peace. It encourages other people through his simple example of leadership and serving others, particularly the people who were below poverty line.

Visiting Information

Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is open every day from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM, and the last entry is at 6:30 PM. The entry is free, so it is available to anyone who would like to go and pay their respects. It is hoped that visitors will go with a sense of respect and reverence. People have already taken the trip to pay tribute to Pope Francis. The tomb will continue to be a place for reflection and inspiration for many years to come.

IThe opening of Pope Francis’s tomb is an important event in Catholic history. It provides individuals around the world with the opportunity to consider his steadfast commitment and his outstanding work. His tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore will serve to preserve his enduring influence on the Catholic Church and the world.

Why Trump and Zelenskyy Were Given Front-Row Seats at Pope Francis’ Funeral?

April 27, 2025, 7:48 am

In a rare departure from Vatican tradition, US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy secured front-row seats at Pope Francis’ funeral, surprising many in diplomatic circles. Typically, papal funerals follow a strict protocol based on diplomatic hierarchy and the French alphabet—the historic language of international diplomacy.

According to custom, Trump, representing the “États-Unis” (United States), rightfully received a front-row seat based on the alphabetical order. Leaders such as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, by contrast, were seated farther back.

At the ceremony, Trump and First Lady Melania occupied seats between Estonia’s President Alar Karis and Spain’s King Felipe VI, placing them near the pulpit.

Zelenskyy’s Symbolic Presence

However, it was President Zelenskyy’s seating that drew the most attention. Despite earlier reports suggesting he might skip the funeral due to urgent wartime matters, Zelenskyy made a last-minute decision to attend, joining his wife Olena Zelenska in St. Peter’s Square.

Zelenskyy’s unexpected appearance, amid growing diplomatic efforts for peace with Russia, carried a deep symbolic message—hope amid sorrow. His arrival received warm applause from those gathered at the Vatican.

Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni later clarified that the Ukrainian couple had taken “a vacant place,” subtly acknowledging that traditional seating rules were adjusted to accommodate them.

Trump and Zelenskyy’s Brief Exchange

During the funeral proceedings, Trump and Zelenskyy also held their first in-person conversation since their tense Oval Office meeting in February. Both leaders later described the interaction as “productive.”

The Passing of Pope Francis

Pope Francis, the cherished Argentinian pontiff, was laid to rest on Saturday at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. He passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, following a stroke and heart failure, as confirmed by Vatican physician Dr. Andrea Arcangeli.

The official death certificate, reported by Reuters, revealed that the Pope had slipped into a coma before his passing. His burial marked the culmination of a global week of mourning among Catholics.

Trump Stirs Controversy with Blue Suit and Carpet Blunder at Pope’s Funeral

April 26, 2025, 6:38 pm

US President Donald Trump set tongues wagging during Pope Francis’ funeral by wearing a blue suit, not black. He also crossed the holy carpet under the late pope’s coffin. These moves, which came across as flagrant violations of funeral etiquette, elicited explosive reactions from mourners and watchers across the globe.

While 200,000 mourners converged on St. Peter’s Square, Trump’s attire stood out in stark relief — and not necessarily in a good way.

Dude really wore a blue suit, not even black or navy at least, but blue. Totally embarrassing and disrespectful. pic.twitter.com/01i1OsYkLf

— Alex Cole (@acnewsitics) April 26, 2025

Trump’s Choice of Attire Enrages Mourners

Trump showed up to the service wearing a bright blue suit. Other global leaders, such as Prince William and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, wore somber black. Melania Trump, though, stayed traditional in a black dress and veil.

Social media went wild near-instantly. Users criticized that Trump was “the only one not dressed in a dark suit.” Most considered it disrespectful. Some even questioned whether he dressed in blue “just to be seen.”

Photos circulated rapidly. Trump’s colorful suit stood out against the sea of black-clad leaders. His look seemed even more incongruous against the dignified attire of royalty and officials.

Trump’s Carpet Blunder Attracts More Criticism

The controversy did not end with the suit. During the Vatican visit, Trump and Melania stepped over the holy carpet in front of the Pope’s coffin. Guests typically get explicit instructions to avoid the holy ground.

Numerous witnesses picked up on it immediately. “Trump and Melania – the only two stepping over the rug where Pope Francis’ coffin sits,” someone posted online. Others noted that other leaders stood back.

Prince William and Sir Keir Starmer stood well back from the carpet. Their dignified actions rendered Trump’s gaffe even more embarrassing.

Global Outrage and Symbolic Fallout

Backlash soon extended well beyond the world of social media. Critics declared the episode damaged America’s reputation at a premier international gathering. Many believed Trump’s behavior demonstrated a broader disrespect for diplomatic protocol.

Trump and Melania lingered for only a minute by the coffin. Their blunders, however, made up all the headlines. Their behavior eclipsed the solemnity of the ceremony itself.

As the world looks back on Pope Francis’ legacy, Trump’s conduct is reminder enough. Even minor instances of disrespect can have enduring repercussions.

Who is Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Leading Pope Francis’ Funeral?

April 26, 2025, 4:07 pm

The world said goodbye to Pope Francis during a somber funeral at St. Peter’s Square. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presided over the funeral Mass in front of more than 200,000 attendees, including world leaders such as Indian President Droupadi Murmu, US President Donald Trump, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

As dean of the College of Cardinals, Re mourned the Pope and emphasized his servant leadership and profound empathy. His words brought everyone back to Pope Francis’ tremendous influence on the Church and the world.

What is Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re?

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 91, is one of the most senior in the Catholic Church. Born in Brescia, Italy, he has served the Church for more than six decades. Ordained in 1957, he entered the Vatican Curia in 1963. He subsequently served in diplomatic posts in Panama and Iran. In 2000, Pope John Paul II appointed him Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, a position where he had a significant role in choosing bishops around the world.

Re is also known for his composed and effective way of dealing with problems. He took part in the 2005 conclave that brought Pope Benedict XVI to power and the 2013 conclave that saw Pope Francis being elected. As the dean of the College of Cardinals since 2020, Re still counsels the Pope, though he cannot vote in the upcoming papal elections due to his age.

Cardinal Re’s Eulogy for Pope Francis

At Pope Francis’ funeral, Cardinal Re commended the Pope’s commitment, which did not waver until his dying days. He described Francis’ last public outing on Easter Sunday, in spite of severe health problems. During that day, the Pope welcomed the crowd from the popemobile. Re pointed out how that picture of Francis, abounding in humility and love, will remain in the hearts of the faithful for eternity.

“Pope Francis was a pastor who was able to connect with the least among us,” Re said. He characterized Francis as a person with an open heart, truly connected to people. Re also pointed out Francis’ casual attitude, which led him to become more accessible and closer to people.

Pope Among the People

Pope Francis possessed a special gift for relating to people from all walks of life. His casual demeanor and profound empathy endeared him to millions. By his outreach to the people below poverty line and his advocacy for social justice, Francis demonstrated that being Pope was not merely a ceremonial position. It was about service.

Cardinal Re’s words reflected this, emphasizing that Pope Francis prioritized the people under poverty line, the sick, and the outcast. He was a man of deep faith, living according to the Gospel’s call to serve others.

Pope Who Inspired Change

Cardinal Re’s obituary honored Pope Francis’ life-long dedication to the people. His last blessing, and waving from the popemobile, will be an enduring memory. Re’s eulogy portrayed a Pope who lived humility and compassion.

Beyond being the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis was a servant of the people. His impact extended across borders and denominations.

President Draupadi Murmu Pays Tribute to Pope Francis in Vatican City | SEE PICS

April 26, 2025, 2:15 pm

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, on Friday visited the Basilica of St. Peter in Vatican City to pay her respects to Pope Francis, who died at 88 years old. Pope Francis’ funeral has been announced for Saturday.

With Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Minister George Kurian, and Goa Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza, President Murmu is on a two-day visit to pay condolences on India’s behalf.

“President Droupadi Murmu paid respects to His Holiness Pope Francis at Basilica of St Peter in Vatican City,” her office posted on X.

President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at Basilica of Saint Peter in Vatican City. pic.twitter.com/eymWVVZi4J

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 25, 2025

On April 26, the president will be present at Pope Francis’ funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Square, to which global dignitaries are invited. The Ministry of External Affairs had announced that India had declared three days of state mourning after the death of Pope Francis.

As per reports from Vatican, about 164 delegations, of which 54 are heads of state and 12 reigning sovereigns, have confirmed attendance at the funeral.

Pope Francis’ Funeral: Who Will Be Present in Rome and Who Won’t Be There?

April 26, 2025, 11:26 am

Pope Francis, the beloved pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21. His funeral will take place today, April 26, at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, drawing numerous world leaders to pay their respects. Here’s a look at who will attend and who won’t.

Key Attendees at the Funeral

United States President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, will be attending the funeral. Trump announced on Truth Social, “Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!”

United Kingdom Prince William will attend on behalf of the Royal Family. Kensington Palace confirmed his attendance, following a previous visit to Rome where the King and Queen Camilla met the Pope earlier this month. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also confirmed his participation.

European Union Commission EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will be at the funeral. She paid tribute to the Pope, saying, “He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate.”

Indian President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Rome on Friday (April 25, 2025) to attend the funeral of Pope Francis.

France French President Emmanuel Macron will attend, having cut short a visit to the Indian Ocean region to do so. He remarked, “We will attend the pope’s funeral as we should.”

Argentina Argentina’s President, Javier Milei, will represent the Pope’s home country at the funeral, acknowledging the Pope’s complex political relationship with his homeland.

Brazil Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his wife Janja will be present, with Lula praising the Pope for his critiques of economic systems that perpetuate injustice. Brazil has also declared a seven-day mourning period in honor of Pope Francis.

Other Leaders Attending

Ireland: Prime Minister Micheal Martin
Spain: King Felipe and Queen Letizia
Belgium: King Philippe, Queen Mathilde, and Prime Minister Bart De Wever
East Timor: President Jose Ramos-Horta
Germany: President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Chancellor Olaf Scholz
Hungary: President Tamas Sulyok
Italy: President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
Latvia: President Edgars Rinkevics
Lithuania: President Gitanas Nauseda
Poland: President Ilie Bolojan
Switzerland: President Karin Keller-Sutter
Czech Republic: Prime Minister Petr Fiala

Leaders Who Won’t Attend

While most global leaders will attend, a few notable figures have opted out.

Russia President Vladimir Putin will not be present, citing an international arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court as a limiting factor on his international travel. The Kremlin confirmed he will not attend but sent a message of respect to Cardinal Kevin Farrell.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also confirmed he will not be attending the funeral.

Other Notable Absentees

Taiwan: President Lai Ching-te
Canada: Prime Minister Mark Carney
Chile: President Gabriel Boric
The Netherlands: King Willem-Alexander

President Murmu Pays Homage to Pope Francis at Vatican Ahead of State Funeral

April 26, 2025, 12:19 am

Vatican City – President Droupadi Murmu paid heartfelt tribute to Pope Francis at Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City on Friday, ahead of the late pontiff’s state funeral scheduled for April 26.

Accompanied by Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and George Kurian, the President offered condolences on behalf of the Government and the people of India. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared the update on social media, noting the dignified homage paid by the Indian delegation.

“President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at the Saint Peter’s Basilica. She was accompanied by Minister Kiren Rijiju and MoS George Kurian to pay respects,” MEA posted on X.

India Mourns the Loss of a Global Spiritual Icon

Pope Francis, aged 88, passed away on April 21 at his residence Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. Known as the first Latin American pontiff, he led the Roman Catholic Church since March 13, 2013. Revered for his humility, compassion, and outreach to the poor, he inspired millions across the globe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, saying:

“Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. He will be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage.”

India Declares Three Days of State Mourning

To honour the legacy of Pope Francis, India declared three days of state mourning—on April 22, 23, and 26. On the funeral day, the national flag will fly at half-mast across all government buildings, and there will be no official entertainment, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Final Farewell on April 26

President Murmu will attend the funeral Mass of Pope Francis at Saint Peter’s Square, where world leaders and dignitaries will gather for the final farewell. The funeral will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, who will also deliver the final commendation before the Pope’s burial at St. Mary Major.

Images released by the Vatican show Pope Francis in an open coffin, dressed in a red robe and holding a rosary—symbolizing his life dedicated to Christ’s teachings.

As the world mourns the passing of one of the most beloved spiritual leaders of our time, India stands in solidarity with the global Catholic community, honouring Pope Francis’s enduring message of peace, inclusion, and compassion.

Zelensky Says May Not Go to Pope’s Funeral Due to Military Meetings

April 25, 2025, 11:30 pm

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated Friday that he may not attend Saturday’s funeral of Pope Francis, which US President Donald Trump also will attend, because of crucial “military meetings.”

Zelensky on Pope Francis’s Funeral in Vatican

Zelensky previously stated he would be going to the Vatican funeral, where he wished to meet Trump who is pressuring Kyiv and Moscow to finalize an agreement on the three-year conflict in Ukraine. With ongoing tensions and conflict along the eastern frontlines, Zelensky had expressed hopes of using the high-profile occasion to hold discussions with global leaders, especially Trump, who has been vocal in urging both sides to accelerate diplomatic solutions.

Kyiv Strike Prompts Urgent Military Meetings

“If I am not (there) in time, Ukraine will be represented at a proper level,” Zelensky said as he visited the site of a deadly Russian strike on Kyiv. His remarks came during a somber appearance in the capital, where emergency responders and civilians were still recovering from the aftermath of the missile attack.

“The foreign minister and the first lady will be there. As for me, it was important for me to be here. There are several military meetings in Ukraine today,” he added. These meetings, according to local reports, are expected to involve top military commanders and defense officials focusing on security assessments and possible retaliatory measures.

Deadly Strike Raises New Questions

Zelensky indicated he would have a “series of meetings,” including on the bombardment of Kyiv that had resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals a day before. The attack was one of the deadliest in recent months, further intensifying the conflict that has already displaced millions and strained Ukraine’s defense resources.

“There are several closed questions about this strike. And about Ukraine’s corresponding steps. I don’t know how long it will take. So if I have time, I will definitely be present (at the funeral),” he said.

Zelensky earlier said North Korea supplied the missile Russia fired on Kyiv, which contained dozens of components from US firms. The claim has raised concerns about international arms trade loopholes and growing ties between Moscow and Pyongyang amid the ongoing war.

Indian President Droupadi Murmu to Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral in Vatican City

April 25, 2025, 12:02 am

Indian President Droupadi Murmu will travel to Vatican City to attend the state funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Thursday that India will officially participate in the international ceremony. Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State, died on April 21 at the age of 88.

MEA Confirms Visit of Indian President Droupadi Murmu

In its release, the MEA stated, “The Hon’ble President of India will visit Vatican City to represent the nation at the State Funeral of HH Pope Francis.” By dispatching President Murmu, India has once again demonstrated its regard for the Pope’s international stature and his leadership of the Catholic Church. The President’s attendance reflects India’s dedication to paying tribute to world leaders of peace, compassion, and humanitarianism.

Leaders from across the continents have reacted with deep sadness to the news of Pope Francis’ death. His funeral will be attended by dozens of heads of state, royals, and dignitaries and will represent one of the largest diplomatic gatherings the Vatican has witnessed in decades.

Global Leaders Join President Draupadi Murmu for Historic Farewell

World leaders like US President Donald Trump, UK’s Prince William, French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia have already confirmed that they will attend. These confirmations indicate the great regard Pope Francis gained during his papacy and the world following for his humanitarian agenda.

President Murmu will not only pay homage on India’s behalf but also interact with other global leaders during the visit. Her presence will further consolidate India’s relations with the Holy See and reaffirm its position in global diplomatic and religious discourse. India’s lively Catholic community, which is a significant component of the country’s religious landscape, also stands acknowledged through this gesture.

Pope Francis’ Legacy of Compassion and Reform

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis was the first Jesuit and the first Latin American to ever head the Catholic Church. During his leadership, he emphasized humility, care of the environment, and openness. Pope Francis consistently spoke on behalf of the oppressed and advocated interfaith tolerance and social justice.

The state funeral at St. Peter’s Basilica will be steeped in high ceremonial protocol and emotional tributes. As global leaders and devout people assemble to bid adieu, President Murmu will stand in as the voice of over a billion Indians to pay their respects to one of the greatest kind-hearted spiritual leaders of this century.

World Leaders Gather For Pope Francis Funeral: A Global Tribute To His Legacy

April 23, 2025, 8:41 pm

World leaders have already confirmed attending Pope Francis funeral on Saturday at Saint Peter’s Square as a historic occasion of international bereavement. While the world mourns the loss of its beloved pontiff, dignitaries and top state leaders across the globe have lined up to offer their final respects to late Pope Francis.

Leaders Scheduled for Pope Francis Funeral

The following world leaders have already confirmed that they will attend the funeral of Pope Francis:

Argentina: President Javier Milei

Belgium: King Philippe, Queen Mathilde, Prime Minister Bart De Wever

Britain: Prince William, Prime Minister Keir Starmer

Brazil: President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, First Lady Janja Lula da Silva

Croatia: President Zoran Milanovic

Cyprus: President Nikos Christodoulides

Czech Republic: Prime Minister Petr Fiala

Estonia: President Alar Karis

Dominican Republic: President Luis Abinader

European Union: Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Council President Antonio Costa, Parliament President Roberta Metsola

East Timor: President Jose Ramos-Horta

Ecuador: President Daniel Noboa

Finland: President Alexander Stubb

France: President Emmanuel Macron

Germany: President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz

Greece: Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis

Hungary: President Tamas Sulyok

Italy: President Sergio Mattarella, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

Ireland: Prime Minister Micheal Martin

Latvia: President Edgars Rinkevics

Lithuania: President Gitanas Nauseda

Moldova: President Maia Sandu

Netherlands: Prime Minister Dick Schoof

New Zealand: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon

Norway: Crown Prince Haakon, Crown Princess Mette-Marit

Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Poland: President Andrzej Duda

Portugal: President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Prime Minister Luis Montenegro

Romania: Interim President Ilie Bolojan

Spain: King Felipe, Queen Letizia

Sweden: King Carl XVI Gustaf, Queen Silvia, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson

Switzerland: President Karin Keller-Sutter

Ukraine: President Volodymyr Zelenskiy

United Nations: Secretary-General Antonio Guterres

United States: President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump

A Global Tribute to the Pope

The presence of so many influential leaders is a testament to the significant influence Pope Francis left on the Catholic Church and the world in general. With the religious and political leaders from various countries in Saint Peter’s Square, the funeral is a somber event for introspection about Pope Francis’ leadership, empathy, and the legacy he leaves behind.

The death of the pope has shaken deeply throughout nations, and his funeral will gather one of the largest global populations in recent years. Heads of state, monarchs, and dignitaries from continents across the world such as Europe, South America, Asia, and North America will gather to remember him and the legacy of peace, religion, and humanitarian contributions.

Pope Francis Funeral Set for Saturday at 10 AM, Cardinals Begin Succession Process

April 22, 2025, 2:27 pm

Pope Francis funeral arrangements have been started at the Vatican following his unexpected death on Monday at 88 years. He had died from a stroke and cardiac arrest just weeks following his recovery from double pneumonia. The Vatican announced his funeral would be held Saturday at 10 a.m. local time at St. Peter’s Square.

The body of the late Pope Francis will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday at 9:00 AM to lie in state until his funeral on Saturday morning at 10:00 AM.

The Holy See Press Office announced on Tuesday that Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of… pic.twitter.com/ObGjYl7Bi7

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 22, 2025

Cardinals convened on Tuesday morning to arrange funeral rituals and prepare to hold a conclave to pick his successor. The Vatican published photos of Francis lying in state in Santa Marta, where he resided during his papacy. Heads of state such as Donald Trump, Javier Milei, and Volodymyr Zelensky are likely to be present for the funeral.

A departure from tradition also surrounds his burial wishes—Francis asked not to be buried at St. Peter’s Basilica but in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. The Church is now at a pivotal moment, with no obvious candidate for the papacy and Francis having left behind a legacy of reform and opposition to conservative pressure.

Ancient Rituals Bear a Modern Legacy

The Vatican shortly initiated customary rituals following a pope’s death. Francis “Fisherman’s Ring” and lead seal were broken by officials to keep them from being used fraudulently. Swiss Guards flanked his coffin in Santa Marta. Cardinals gathered at their first General Congregation at 9 a.m. to organize funeral arrangements.

Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell presides over the rite of the ascertainment of death and the placement of the late Pope Francis’ body in the coffin, which took place on Monday evening in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/63aPKTW9nD

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 22, 2025

Italian Cardinal Fernando Filoni highlighted prayer as the core during this time of transition. The funeral can be held on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, Vatican officials confirmed.

In his last will, Pope Francis requested burial in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major rather than the usual St. Peter’s Basilica. He had also avoided the papal palace in 2013, opting for a simple apartment in Santa Marta. His body could be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica by Wednesday for public veneration.

Global Leaders to Attend Pope’s Funeral

US President Donald Trump, who clashed with Francis on immigration, confirmed his attendance alongside other global leaders.

The presence of Argentine President Javier Milei adds emotional weight, as Francis was born in Buenos Aires. Ukrainian President Zelensky will also attend, reflecting Francis’ global political relevance.

Conclave Looms, But No Frontrunner Yet

The conclave to choose the next pope will come after May 6. Approximately 135 cardinal electors—80% of whom were appointed by Francis—will attend. That raises the likelihood of a progressive successor but does not make one inevitable.

Discussions in the days ahead will decide the Church’s path. The electors, most of whom are obscure beyond their localities, will define the character they want the next pope to have through day-to-day deliberations.

A Reformist Who Shook the Church

Francis inherited a scandal-plagued Church. He struggled to reform the Vatican bureaucracy and fought corruption. Although he was slow to tackle clerical abuse, he finally tackled it outright. He championed the inclusion of LGBTQ persons and stood up for migrants. But traditionalists repeatedly pushed back, accusing him of dismantling Church values.

Francis’ untimely death leaves the Church at a crossroads. His reformist vision transformed the way many perceived the papacy. Today, behind closed doors, cardinals gather to decide the fate of the Catholic Church. Will it follow Francis’ reformist agenda or return to conservative beginnings?