When is Pope Francis Funeral?

The Vatican has begun a nine-day mourning period following Pope Francis’ death, with global leaders and millions of faithful preparing to honor the 266th pontiff. His funeral, set to break centuries-old traditions, reflects his lifelong commitment to simplicity and reform.

Pope Francis Chose Simplified Papal Funeral Rituals

Breaking from papal precedent, Francis redesigned his funeral rites in 2024 to strip away grandeur, insisting on ceremonies befitting “a pastor, not a worldly power.” Archbishop Diego Ravelli, overseeing the liturgy, emphasized the pope’s vision: “The rituals must spotlight Christ, not the institution.”

When Is Pope Francis’ Funeral?

The Vatican’s camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, will confirm the funeral date within 4–6 days of the pope’s death. Public viewing of Francis’ body in St. Peter’s Basilica will precede the service, while the destruction of his Fisherman’s Ring—a symbolic end to his papacy—will occur to prevent forgery. No autopsy will be performed, adhering to Vatican norms.

Where Is Pope Francis’ Funeral?

In a historic departure, Francis will be buried at Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major—not the Vatican Grottoes—fulfilling his wish to rest near the Salus Populi Romani Marian icon, which he prayed before during crises.

How Will Pope Francis’ Funeral Differ From Previous Papal Funerals?

1. Simplified Coffin: A single wooden casket replaces ornate triple coffins (cypress, lead, oak).
2. Open-Casket Veneration: His body will lie in an open coffin at St. Peter’s Basilica, avoiding the elevated catafalque platform used for past popes.
3. Modernized Rites: Updated prayers, expanded Litany of Saints (including canonized popes), and a confirmation of death in his private chapel—not the papal apartments—reflect his pastoral ethos.
4. Burial Site: The Basilica of St. Mary Major holds personal significance, contrasting with recent popes interred beneath St. Peter’s.

What Happens Next? Vatican Conclave to Elect New Pope

After the funeral, the College of Cardinals will enter a conclave in the Sistine Chapel to elect Francis’ successor. Requiring a two-thirds majority, the vote culminates in white smoke signaling a new pope. Francis’ progressive legacy—social justice, climate action, and Church decentralization—will loom large as cardinals debate the Church’s future direction.