Public Viewing for Pope Francis Begins Ahead of Saturday Funeral

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, has died, prompting an outpouring of mourning from around the world. His body will lie in state in St. Peter's Basilica for public viewing beginning April 23, following a solemn procession from the Vatican hotel. The funeral Mass is scheduled for April 26 in St. Peter’s Square, to be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re and attended by global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. In a break from tradition, Pope Francis requested burial at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome rather than in St. Peter’s Basilica, reflecting his well-known humility and personal devotion. The funeral will initiate nine days of official mourning and memorial Masses, with Vatican Media providing live coverage of the ceremonies. The rituals and planning have been carefully organized by the College of Cardinals and follow revised rites established during Pope Francis’s tenure.