Pope Francis Funeral Held in Rome with Global Leaders

Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88, will be laid to rest following a funeral attended by over 150 delegations, including 54 heads of state and numerous faithful in St Peter’s Square, Rome. The funeral, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, will follow a detailed liturgical order mostly conducted in Latin, as outlined by the Vatican, and will conclude with the traditional rites and prayers. Notably, in accordance with his 2022 will, Pope Francis requested to be buried in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome—departing from the tradition of papal burials in St Peter’s Basilica—emphasizing a simple tomb with only his papal name inscribed. The procession and funeral rituals will involve archbishops, bishops, priests, and cardinals assembling in ceremonial garments before accompanying the coffin in a solemn procession. After the service in St Peter’s Square, the Pope's coffin will be transported 2.5 miles across Rome to fulfill his burial wishes. The unprecedented burial location and simplicity of the tomb reflect Pope Francis’s personal devotion and humility, marking a significant departure from previous papal funerals.