An Overview of Pope Francis’ Funeral: What to Expect as Mourners Pay Their Respects

Pope Francis, who was originally named Jorge Mario Bergoglio and was born to Regina Maria Sivori and Mario Jose Francisco in Argentina, will have his final procession in red vestments and a traditional white cassock. His body will be taken to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore outside the Vatican on Saturday for his burial.

The Vatican has reported that Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, due to a stroke and cardiac arrest. He was 88 years old at the time of his death.

In the early hours of Easter Monday, Pope Francis suffered a stroke that led to a coma. Following this, the former leader of the Catholic Church experienced irreversible cardiocirculatory failure, resulting in his passing, according to the Vatican.

Pope Francis’ life will be celebrated in Rome on Saturday, April 26, 2025. (The Associated Press)

“I want my last earthly journey to end in this ancient sanctuary Mariano where I went for prayer at the beginning and end of each Apostolic Journey to confidently entrust my intentions to the Immaculate Mother and thank Her for the docile and maternal care.

“I ask that my tomb be prepared in the hole of the aisle between the Pauline Chapel (Chapel of the Salus Populi Romani) and the Sforza Chapel of the aforementioned Papal Basilica as Indicated in the attached annex.

“The tomb must be in the earth; simple, without particular decorum and with the only inscription: Franciscus.

“The expenses for the preparation of my burial will be covered with the sum of the benefactor who I have arranged, to be transferred to the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and of which I have provided to give appropriate instructions to Mons. Rolandas Makrickas, Extraordinary Commissioner of the Chapter Liberian.

“May the Lord give the well-deserved reward to those who have loved me and will continue to pray for me. The suffering that was made in the last part of my life I offered to the Lord for peace in the world and brotherhood among peoples.”