Pope Francis’ Funeral Set for Saturday, Public Viewing Begins Wednesday

The Vatican has announced that the funeral of Pope Francis will be held this Saturday at 10:00 AM (08:00 GMT) at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, Al Jazeera reports.

The announcement followed a meeting of cardinals convened to finalize funeral arrangements and begin preparations for the upcoming conclave to elect the next leader of the Catholic Church.

World leaders are expected to attend the ceremony to pay their respects to the late pontiff, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest. His death marks the end of a 12-year papacy characterized by his advocacy for the marginalized and, at times, clashes with traditionalist factions within the Church.

Prior to the funeral, the body of Pope Francis will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday morning at 07:00 GMT for public viewing. Currently, he lies in state in a coffin in the chapel of the Santa Marta residence, where he resided throughout his papacy. Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, the camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, will preside over a prayer service before the coffin is transported to St. Peter’s Basilica through its central door. A liturgy will then be held, allowing the public to begin paying their respects.

Despite a recent bout of double pneumonia that required a five-week hospital stay, Pope Francis had appeared to be recovering, even addressing worshippers in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.

His death has triggered established Vatican protocols, including the ceremonial destruction of the Fisherman’s Ring and papal seal, signifying the termination of his papal authority.

Among those preparing to attend the funeral are numerous world leaders and royals, including United States President Donald Trump and President Javier Milei of Argentina, the Pope’s native country.

In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis had expressed his wish to be buried at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, located outside the Vatican. The basilica holds special significance to him as it houses his favorite icon of the Virgin Mary.

Alongside the announcement of the funeral and public viewing, the Vatican released photos and a video of Pope Francis lying in his open coffin, dressed in a red robe, adorned with the papal mitre, and holding a rosary.

Looking ahead, the Church is now focused on the conclave, expected to commence after May 6. 135 cardinal electors, nearly 80% of whom were appointed by Francis, will convene in secret to vote and elect his successor.