As the world prepares to say goodbye to Pope Francis, the Vatican has shared the full details of his funeral plans — and it’s clear they reflect the humility and deep devotion that defined his life.
From the place of his burial to the symbolic touches in his funeral rites, everything about this farewell is personal and profoundly meaningful.
Funeral Mass Set for Saturday in St. Peter’s Square
Pope Francis’ funeral Mass will take place this Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. in the iconic St. Peter’s Square.
The Vatican officially confirmed the timing on Tuesday morning.
The Mass will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who currently serves as the dean of the College of Cardinals.
It’s expected to draw massive crowds, from world leaders to everyday Catholics who admired the pope’s simplicity and warmth.
A Burial Reflecting His Deep Devotion to Mary
After the Mass, the pope’s body will be carried into St. Peter’s Basilica before being transferred to the Basilica of St. Mary Major — the place he chose as his final resting spot.
This choice is deeply personal. Unlike past popes who were buried in the Vatican grottoes, Francis requested to be buried at St. Mary Major, a place he visited more than a hundred times during his papacy.
He often stopped there to pray before and after his international trips, always in devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Pope’s Body to Lie in State for Three Days
Before the funeral, the faithful will have a chance to say their goodbyes in person.
Beginning Wednesday morning, the pope’s body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The rite of translation — the ceremonial movement of the body — will take place at 9 a.m. on April 23.
His coffin will be part of a solemn procession, starting from Santa Marta Square and passing through the Square of the Roman Protomartyrs before entering the basilica through its central door.
A Simple Coffin and a Silk Veil
In keeping with his humble spirit, Pope Francis will be buried in a plain wooden coffin lined with zinc.
His face is covered with a silk veil, a traditional gesture of respect.
The liturgy for the funeral will follow the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, the official Vatican text for papal funerals.
Interestingly, it was updated just last year at Pope Francis’ own request.
Global Leaders to Join the Farewell
The funeral is expected to draw a high-profile international crowd. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has already confirmed his intention to attend alongside his wife, Melania Trump.
Leaders from across the globe — including political figures, religious leaders, and thousands of mourners — are anticipated to be present in Rome for this historic event.
Nine Days of Masses in His Memory
The funeral marks only the beginning of the mourning period.
For the following nine days, known as the “Novendiales,” special Requiem Masses will be held daily in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Each Mass will be presided over by a different cardinal — all of whom were handpicked by Pope Francis himself.
A Farewell Rooted in Faith and Simplicity
From his decision to rest beside the Virgin Mary to the modest design of his coffin, Pope Francis’ final journey reflects the same values he preached throughout his life: humility, compassion, and unwavering faith.
The coming days in Rome will be both sorrowful and celebratory, as the world gathers to honor a man who reshaped the papacy with love, courage, and sincerity.