Remains of Pope Francis Carried to St. Peter’s Basilica Ahead of Funeral
The remains of Pope Francis were solemnly carried up the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica and into the Vatican on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, marking the beginning of final rites for the beloved pontiff.
The Rite of Translation from the Casa Santa Marta, where the Pope passed away, was led by members of the College of Cardinals currently present in Rome. The moving ceremony drew a crowd of more than 20,000 mourners who gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pay their respects.
According to the Holy See Press Office, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, will preside over the Rite of Sealing of the late Pope’s coffin in St. Peter’s Basilica on Friday, April 25 at 8 PM local time.
The funeral for Pope Francis is scheduled for Saturday, April 26 at 10:00 AM local time (09:00 BST). World leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of worshippers are expected to attend the event, which will be broadcast to millions around the world.
While papal funerals have historically been ornate and steeped in tradition, Pope Francis left instructions for a simpler farewell, in line with his long-standing personal humility and pastoral approach. Notably, he will be the first Pope in over a century not to be buried in the Vatican crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
Instead, he will be laid to rest at Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, a site of personal devotion for him throughout his papacy.
True to his wishes, the Pope will be buried in a simple wooden casket lined with zinc, forgoing the traditional three nesting coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak used for his predecessors.
Pope Francis’ funeral and burial arrangements reflect his life’s message of humility, service, and closeness to the people—principles that endeared him to millions during his pontificate.
