In brief
The Vatican has officially announced that Pope Francis's funeral will occur this Saturday at 10:00 AM local time outside St. Peter's Basilica.
Pope Francis's body will be available for viewing starting Wednesday morning, allowing fans and mourners to pay their respects. The late pontiff, who passed away on Easter Monday at age 88, will have his body displayed in an open casket, bucking typical tradition. The transportation of his body will feature a procession led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who is currently managing the Vatican until a new pope is elected. Pope Francis wanted a simpler farewell, requesting to be buried in a single wooden coffin and at the St. Mary Major basilica instead of the usual St. Peter’s crypt. The funeral service, which is expected to draw large crowds, will include various religious leaders from around the globe. Heads of state, including US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, have also confirmed their presence. After the funeral, cardinals will convene to elect the next pope, an important event that will shape the future of the Catholic Church.
