Vatican Sets Saturday for Pope Francis’ Funeral Mass

The world prepares to bid a solemn farewell to one of the most beloved spiritual leaders of our time, as Pope Francis’ funeral has been officially scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. in the heart of St. Peter’s Square. The farewell Mass will be led by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, honoring the late pontiff's final wishes. 

In a quiet but emotional meeting within the Vatican walls, cardinals gathered to map out not only the funeral and burial of Pope Francis, but also the next crucial steps for the Catholic Church: including preparations for the upcoming conclave that will choose his successor. 

But before the bells toll and the square fills with mourners, the faithful will have a chance to say their personal goodbyes. Beginning Wednesday, the pope's body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, following a solemn procession from the Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guesthouse he humbly called home. 

While many pontiffs are buried beneath the Basilica, Pope Francis chose a different path, even in death. In his final will, he requested to be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a site dear to him and home to his most cherished image of the Virgin Mary. 

Behind his warm smile and inclusive theology, Pope Francis carried a long-standing battle with lung disease—having lost part of a lung in his youth. His final health battle began on February 14, when he was rushed to Gemelli Hospital during a respiratory emergency that worsened into double pneumonia. After a grueling 38-day stay—the longest of his papacy—he returned briefly to the public eye before his condition took a fatal turn. 

In what would become his final public moment, he appeared at the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday, offering a frail but heartfelt blessing to the crowds. Less than 24 hours later, on Easter Monday, the world awoke to the heartbreaking news of his passing. 

From the streets of Buenos Aires to the throne of St. Peter, Pope Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio—changed the tone and face of the Catholic Church. Eschewing opulence, championing the marginalized, and urging the faithful to embrace mercy over judgment, his papacy will be remembered as one of deep humility and human connection. 

Now, the world watches as the Vatican prepares to lay him to rest—not just as a pope, but as a symbol of spiritual reform, compassion, and the enduring strength of faith. 

May he rest in peace, wrapped in the prayers of the global flock he shepherded for over a decade.