Newsroom
The funeral of Pope Francis is expected to be held this Saturday, according to the latest information from Vatican sources. Among the world leaders set to attend the ceremony is U.S. President Donald Trump, who confirmed his presence in a post on Truth Social.
“Melania and I will be attending Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome,” Trump wrote, marking his public tribute to a pope whose global influence extended far beyond the Catholic Church.
The late pontiff’s body was quietly moved on Easter Monday evening to the chapel of the Saint Martha guesthouse – the place he chose to reside during his papacy instead of the more formal Apostolic Palace. His office and apartment were sealed soon after, in line with Vatican tradition following the death of a pope.
A humble leader to the end
Although the Vatican has not officially released Pope Francis’ final wishes, close aides suggest he had expressed the desire for a modest and prayerful farewell, fitting for a pope who consistently championed humility, service, and solidarity with the poor.
The Italian government is expected to declare three days of national mourning, reflecting the deep respect Francis commanded not only in Italy but across the globe.
Tributes have begun to pour in from world leaders. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba described Francis as a “defender of the environment and diplomacy in the service of peace.” He added that the pope’s passing “is not only a great loss for the people of the Vatican and for Catholics, but also for the international community.”
What comes next: The conclave
With the Chair of Saint Peter now vacant, attention is turning to the College of Cardinals, who will soon gather in conclave to elect the next pope. In a centuries-old tradition, the cardinals will meet in the Sistine Chapel under strict secrecy to begin their deliberations.
The date of the conclave has not yet been announced, but preparations are already underway. The coming days will be marked by reflection, solemn ceremonies, and behind-the-scenes discussions about the future direction of the Catholic Church.
As bells toll across Rome and flags fly at half-mast, the world says goodbye to a pope who reshaped the Church’s global image with compassion, reform, and unwavering commitment to dialogue. Now, the Vatican looks ahead, to continuity, or perhaps to change.
