Overview

• Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, is now lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica until Friday evening, with tens of thousands expected to pay their respects.
• A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday at St. Peter’s Square, with international leaders including Donald Trump, Ursula von der Leyen, and Volodymyr Zelensky confirming their attendance.
• The late pope’s will specifies a modest burial in Santa Maria Maggiore, with only his Latin name ‘Franciscus’ inscribed on the tombstone.
• Rome is under significant security measures due to the convergence of global leaders, pilgrims for the Holy Year 2025, and the logistical demands of the funeral.
• The papal conclave to elect Francis’s successor is set to convene in early May, though two cardinals have withdrawn due to health reasons.