Pope Francis Demise: The solemn proceedings for the burial of the Late Pope Francis are set to commence this Wednesday, as his body will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica at 9:00 AM. The Pope will lie in state until his funeral, scheduled for Saturday morning at 10:00 AM.
The Holy See Press Office has confirmed that Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the funeral Mass. This significant ceremony will see participation from Patriarchs, Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, and priests from around the world, all coming together to honor the legacy of the beloved pontiff.
The Eucharistic celebration will culminate with the Ultima commendatio and the Valedictio, signaling the commencement of the Novemdiales, a period of nine days dedicated to mourning and Masses for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul.
Following the funeral, the late Pope’s body will be transported to St. Mary Major Basilica for entombment. Before this, on Wednesday, the coffin will be carried from the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta to St. Peter’s Basilica, marking a poignant moment in the transition of the Pope’s earthly remains.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, will lead the rite of translation on April 23, beginning at 9:00 AM with a moment of prayer. The procession will traverse Santa Marta Square and the Square of the Roman Protomartyrs, as detailed by the Holy See Press Office.
As the procession exits through the Arch of the Bells into St. Peter’s Square, it will enter the Vatican Basilica through the central door. At the Altar of the Confession, the Cardinal Camerlengo will preside over the Liturgy of the Word, after which the faithful will have the opportunity to pay their respects to the body of the Roman Pontiff.
These proceedings reflect a deep sense of reverence and respect for Pope Francis, whose impact on the Church and the world will be remembered for generations to come.