Pope Francis’ funeral date has officially been confirmed by the Vatican, Saturday, April 26. The beloved pontiff, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on Easter Monday at age 88. The funeral will begin at 10:00 a.m. local time in front of St. Peter’s Basilica and will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals. But in a surprising twist, Francis will not be buried in the traditional papal crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
Instead, honoring his own wishes, the Pope will be laid to rest at Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major. That makes him the first pope in more than 50 years to opt out of a Vatican burial. In his final testament, Francis wrote that he wanted no fancy decoration or tomb. Just a simple resting place bearing “Franciscus,” his papal name in Latin. He requested to be buried in the ground, tucked between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel, a spot he often prayed in before and after his travels.
Since his passing, the Vatican has released images of the Pope in an open casket at Casa Santa Marta, the modest residence he lived in throughout his 12-year papacy. Draped in red robes, Francis looks peaceful as the world begins to say goodbye.
His health had been declining recently due to double pneumonia, bronchitis, and other chronic conditions like arterial hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and bronchiectasis. The Vatican confirmed his cause of death through ECG testing. Despite all this, his last message was filled with faith and humility. “The suffering that has marked the final part of my life,” he wrote, “I offer to the Lord, for peace in the world and fraternity among peoples.”
UK’s Cardinal Vincent Nichols called him “a voice filled with compassion, mercy, and righteous indignation” and said the Pope reminded the world to measure success by speaking with those who struggle.
Pope Francis’ funeral date is not just a moment of grief, it’s a reminder of the simplicity and sincerity that marked his life and papacy. He chose the path less taken, even in death, breaking centuries-old traditions to stay true to what he believed.
Let us know how Pope Francis impacted your life or faith.
