Pope Francis
The news of Pope Francis’ death shocked the world. The pontiff, who led the Catholic Church with empathy and firmness for over a decade, passed away on the morning of April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, in the Vatican. Now that the funeral has been officially confirmed, many faithful and curious people wonder: what happens after the death of a pope? This article explains all the details.
Pope Francis’ Funeral Date is Set
The Holy See confirmed that Pope Francis’ funeral will be held on April 26, 2025, at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican. The pontiff’s body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica starting on the 23rd, allowing the faithful from around the world to pay their respects.
It will be a ceremony of great significance, with the presence of religious leaders, cardinals, heads of state, and thousands of pilgrims from various countries.
What Happens After the Death of a Pope?
The death of a pope initiates a series of ancient and rigorous traditions upheld by the Catholic Church. Below are the main events that occur during this transition period.
The Sede Vacante and the Temporary Administration of the Church
With the death of a pontiff, the Church officially enters the Sede Vacante period, Latin for “vacant seat.” During this time, no definitive doctrinal or administrative decisions may be made until a new pope is elected.
During this phase, the Church’s administrative command is assumed by the Camerlengo, currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell. He is responsible for overseeing the funeral proceedings and preparing for the papal succession.
Days of Mourning and Public Visitation
In the days leading up to the funeral, Pope Francis’ body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica for public visitation. Thousands of faithful are expected to pay tribute and take part in moments of prayer.
Several countries have declared official mourning. In Brazil, for instance, a seven-day period has been declared in honor of the late pontiff.
How the New Pope Will Be Chosen
After the funeral, cardinals under the age of 80 are summoned for the Conclave, a secret meeting held in the Sistine Chapel. There, they vote in secrecy until a new pope is elected.
The white smoke rising from the chimney signals to the world that the Church has a new leader. This moment is marked by the traditional phrase “Habemus Papam,” when the new pontiff is officially presented.
The Legacy of a Leader Who Marked Generations
Even after his passing, Pope Francis’ legacy remains alive. He was the first Latin American pope and the first Jesuit to sit on the throne of Peter. His pontificate will be remembered for his commitment to the poor, defense of the environment, and constant pursuit of dialogue and social justice.
Francis also broke many protocols with his simplicity and closeness to the people, having led one of the most transformative eras of the Catholic Church in the 21st century.
Burial Outside the Vatican
In a personal gesture, Pope Francis requested to be buried outside the Vatican Grottoes. His wish will be honored, and he will be laid to rest in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome — a special place he frequently visited before and after his apostolic journeys.
A Time of Prayer and Expectation
With the funeral scheduled and the Conclave approaching, the Catholic world enters a period of deep prayer and reflection. Faithful from all continents follow this historic moment with gratitude for Francis’ legacy and hope for the future of the Church.
The transition is underway, and the world watches with reverence the unfolding of one of the most significant events in contemporary Christian faith.
On Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. (Rome time), a solemn Mass will be held in memory of Pope Francis. The ceremony officially marks the beginning of the Novendiali, the traditional nine-day period of mourning and prayers dedicated to the deceased pontiff. The celebration will take place at the St. Peter’s Basilica atrium, and will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, current Dean of the College of Cardinals.
Following the Mass, the final rites known as the Ultima Commendatio and Valedictio will be performed — liturgical moments of farewell that officially conclude the papal funeral. The coffin will then be brought back into St. Peter’s Basilica and later transferred to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the place chosen by Francis for his eternal rest.
The ceremony will be attended by numerous heads of state and international religious leaders, who have confirmed their presence to pay final tribute to one of the most iconic popes of the contemporary era.
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