In brief
Pope Francis' funeral mass will take place on Saturday, with millions expected to tune in to honor the late pontiff.
The funeral mass for Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 89, will take place this Saturday at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square, attracting international leaders, clergy from various ranks, and thousands of faithful from across the globe. The rituals surrounding his passing have been meticulously planned and will be available for viewing through numerous international news streams.Pope Francis' body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica until the funeral, dressed in traditional papal attire. Broadcasts by major news networks, such as NBC, CBS, CNN, and ABC, will cover the funeral, along with the Vatican’s YouTube channel.The Mass, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, will adhere to centuries-old traditions but with a more simplified approach than previous papal funerals. Pope Francis had previously made changes to the ceremonial protocols, including opting for a single wooden coffin instead of the customary three. Following the Mass, he will be laid to rest at the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, his final request reflecting a desire for a humble, unadorned tomb marked only with the name "Franciscus."In a display of unity and respect, a diverse group of world leaders, including President Trump, Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom, and President Zelensky of Ukraine, are expected to pay their respects, emphasizing the impact of his leadership on a global scale. Additionally, special Masses commemorating Pope Francis will be held in churches throughout Rome for nine days following the funeral, creating a space for reflection and remembrance among those who were touched by his ministry.
