In brief
Mourners from across the globe gathered to pay tribute to Pope Francis as his funeral ceremony neared, showcasing a profound sense of unity and reflection on his impactful 12-year papacy.
April 26, 2025, 1:42 a.m. ET — In Vatican City, thousands of Roman Catholics gathered to bid farewell to Pope Francis during his funeral Mass held in St. Peter’s Square. The crowd is expected to include not just clergy but also dignitaries and everyday citizens who felt a unique connection to the pontiff, who championed inclusivity within the Catholic Church.Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88, had reformed papal funeral traditions to promote a simpler, more humble ceremony, although the rich centuries-old rites would still be observed. The attendance anticipated more than 150 foreign delegations, including notable figures such as President Donald Trump and President Joseph R. Biden Jr. from the United States, alongside President Javier Milei from Argentina, the pope's birthplace, and a representation of marginalized communities, including refugees and the homeless.The funeral Mass, scheduled for 10 a.m. local time (4 a.m. Eastern), aims for a broad outreach, and viewers can access live coverage through major news outlets including the New York Times and various international broadcasters. Major adjustments Pope Francis implemented last year will ensure the rites reflect his vision of a pope as a humble servant rather than a majestic figure: notably, only one wooden coffin will be used for him.Following the Mass, Pope Francis will be transported to the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where he will receive a private burial. His wishes for a simple grave marked only by the inscription “Franciscus” will align with his lifestyle and the values he advocated throughout his leadership.As the ceremony unfolds, international tensions are predicted to cast a shadow over the occasion, with various attendees having had polarized relations during and after the pope’s papacy. However, Pope Francis’s legacy will be remembered for promoting environmental advocacy, dialogue between faiths, and championing the underprivileged.As early morning in Rome saw police officers preparing for the occasion, crowds began to form as schoolchildren, church groups, and a diverse group of attendees made their way to the square, creating an atmosphere steeped in reverence and collective mourning for the beloved figure who sought to reform the Church and reach out to the world's vulnerable. The streets of Rome, typically bustling, were notably subdued as they prepared to honor their bishop in a solemn farewell.
