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3d ago

Pope Francis' Funeral Preparations Advance as Public Viewing Nears End

The Vatican enforces photography restrictions while finalizing plans for Friday’s coffin sealing and Saturday’s funeral and burial.

King Charles III, pictured on Easter Sunday, is not expected to attend the funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday keeping in line with longtime royal procedure and protocol.
People queue to pay respects as the body of Pope Francis lies in state inside St. Peter's Basilica in The Vatican, on April 23, 2025.
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Overview

  • Pope Francis' body continues to lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, with over 61,000 visitors reported in the first 26 hours of public viewing.
  • Complaints have arisen over mourners taking selfies with the late pontiff’s open casket, prompting stricter enforcement of smartphone bans inside the basilica.
  • The Vatican has announced that the coffin will be sealed on Friday evening in a ceremony led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, marking the end of public viewing.
  • The funeral Mass, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, is scheduled for Saturday morning in St. Peter’s Square, with attendance from global leaders including Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron, and Prince William.
  • Breaking from tradition, Pope Francis will be buried in a simple tomb at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, reflecting his lifelong commitment to modesty.