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2d ago

Pope Francis's Coffin Sealed as Rome Prepares for Funeral and Global Mourning

The late pontiff’s simple burial wishes reflect his humility as world leaders and 250,000 mourners honor his legacy.

An aerial view from a Carabinieri helicopter shows St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, where Pope Francis lies in state, as seen from Rome, Italy April 25, 2025. REUTERS/Vincenzo Livieri
The body of Pope Francis lies in a casket before it's sealed, at St. Peter's Basilica, ahead of his funeral at the Vatican, on April 25, 2025.
People queue to enter St. Peter's Basilica to pay respects as Pope Francis lies in state, as seen from Rome, Italy, April 25, 2025. REUTERS/Susana Vera
The casket of Pope Francis is sealed at St. Peter's Basilica, ahead of his funeral at the Vatican, on April 25, 2025.

Overview

  • Pope Francis’s coffin was sealed on Friday evening in a private ceremony led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, marking the end of three days of public viewing attended by over 250,000 mourners.
  • The funeral Mass will take place on Saturday in St. Peter’s Square, with Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presiding and over 220 cardinals and 750 clergy concelebrating the liturgy.
  • World leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Prince William, are among 164 delegations confirmed to attend the funeral, alongside tens of thousands of mourners.
  • Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, as per his request for a modest tomb inscribed only with 'Franciscus,' breaking with over a century of tradition.
  • Italy has implemented extensive security measures, including 2,500 police officers, 1,500 soldiers, anti-drone systems, and naval and air defense, to ensure safety during the funeral and procession.