Overview

• Michelle O’Neill, Northern Ireland’s First Minister, has confirmed her attendance at Pope Francis’s funeral in St Peter’s Square on Saturday.
• Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at age 88, is remembered for his humility, advocacy for the poor, and support for the Good Friday Agreement.
• World leaders including US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin will also attend the ceremony.
• Archbishop Eamon Martin compared Pope Francis to St Francis of Assisi, emphasizing his focus on the poor, marginalized, and environmental stewardship.
• The Northern Ireland Assembly will reconvene on Monday to deliver tributes to Pope Francis, reflecting on his influence on peace and reconciliation in Ireland.