Pope Francis, known for his humble approach, will be honored with a funeral that balances grandeur and simplicity. This guide takes you through the meticulous details of his farewell ceremony, a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church as it closes one chapter and prepares to elect a new pontiff. Discover how the event is both a tribute to his legacy and a testament to his commitment to simplicity.

Current Location of Pope Francis' Body

The body of Pope Francis now lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing cardinals and the public to pay their respects over a three-day period. Initially moved from the chapel of Casa Santa Marta, where he resided, the pope’s body rests at the Altar of the Confessio, a sacred site above the tomb of St. Peter. In line with his simplified wishes, Francis lies in an open wooden coffin, foregoing the traditional three coffin layers.

Funeral Timing and Location

The ceremony is set to begin at 10 a.m. local time on Saturday, six days post his passing. This timing mirrors that of previous papal funerals, like that of Pope Benedict XVI. On the previous night, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, responsible for funeral arrangements, will conduct the coffin’s sealing rite at 8 p.m.

The funeral will largely take place in St. Peter’s Square, a traditional open-air location that allows vast numbers of the faithful to gather and participate. Following the eucharist and the final commendation, the coffin will return to the basilica, completing the ceremonies. The event will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.

Simplification of Ceremonies

The rites follow the revised “Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis,” reflecting Francis’ vision to present the papal funeral as one befitting a pastoral shepherd rather than earthly royalty. Adjustments, like the open coffin viewing, have already illustrated his wish to convey humility and accessibility.

Attendees

The funeral will be attended by a multitude of political and religious leaders from around the world. Among them are Argentina’s President Javier Milei, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and notable figures like French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Despite the global interest, Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend due to existing international legal proceedings.

Burial Site

Pope Francis requested a simple resting place at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major. His instructions were clear: a modest tomb, devoid of elaborate ornamentation and bearing only his name. This basilica, located outside the Vatican walls, will serve as his final resting place after the funeral.

The Start of Conclave

With the passing of Pope Francis, the traditional conclave process begins. This combines ancient rituals with modern procedural aspects to elect the new pope from the eligible cardinals. Francis leaves a legacy in the College of Cardinals, having appointed a significant portion of the electors, likely influencing the future direction of the Church’s leadership.