In brief
The world bids farewell to Pope Francis as he is honored by leaders and followers, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a mourning journey.
In a significant departure from the grand funerals of his predecessors, the funeral of Pope Francis is set to take place with a simplicity he personally requested. Despite this, the event is expected to remain a grand ceremonial occasion, honoring the head of the Catholic Church and his legacy to more than a billion followers worldwide. Vatican City has become a focal point for famous personalities, politicians, and devout followers gathering to pay their last respects.In preparation for the funeral, archbishops and bishops began congregating early in the Constantine Wing adjacent to St. Peter's Basilica. Simultaneously, Catholic priests gathered in St. Peter's Square, preparing for the poignant event that began at 10:00 local time. Here, the Pope's coffin, which had been in the center of St. Peter's Basilica for four days, was laid to rest in front of the crowd. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, presides over the ceremony, concluding with a heartfelt commendation to God as part of the nine-day mourning period known as Novemdiales.An estimated 250,000 mourners are anticipated to attend, with around 170 heads of state and dignitaries, including Prince William and US President Donald Trump, among them. The funeral service will witness a diversity of clergy members dressed according to specific codes, symbolizing their rank within the Church.Following the official service, the body of Pope Francis, clothed in a red chasuble and ornate mitre, will be transported to Santa Maria Maggiore for burial. In a profound break with tradition, he chose to be buried outside the Vatican, making him the first pope since Leo XIII to do so. His decision is rooted in his Jesuit faith and devotion to the Virgin Mary, as he expressed in his will. Francis specifically requested a simple wooden coffin with a zinc interior, emphasizing his desire for humility rather than prestige.The funeral has drawn attention to Pope Francis' legacy of humility and compassion throughout his papacy. As the world watches, tributes pour in, with discussions about who may follow Francis as the next pope heating up. The live proceedings will be available online and on various channels, bringing together a global audience for this momentous occasion.
