In a solemn and private ritual at St. Peter’s Basilica, the casket of Pope Francis was sealed on Friday, April 25, ahead of his funeral scheduled for Saturday morning. The ceremony followed three days of public visitation, during which approximately 250,000 mourners gathered in Vatican City to pay their final respects to the beloved pontiff, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo, presided over the traditional rites. The ceremony began with the reading of a document chronicling Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s life and accomplishments as the 266th Pope. It emphasized that his memory would endure in the heart of the Church and humanity. A white silk veil was gently placed over the Pope’s face, and he was sprinkled with holy water. In keeping with Vatican tradition, a bag containing coins and medals minted during each year of his twelve-year papacy was also placed in the coffin.
The zinc casket was then sealed with the Pope’s cross, coat of arms, and a plaque bearing his name and the dates of his life and papal ministry, accompanied by the singing of psalms. While previous popes were interred within the Vatican, Francis requested a simpler burial in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, his favorite church, breaking with long-standing tradition. His instructions called for an unadorned burial in the ground, marked only by the Latin inscription “Franciscus.”
Francis’ funeral is expected to be attended by several world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Prince William, representing the British royal family. The Pope’s passing was confirmed by the Vatican to be the result of a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. He had also been suffering from a series of underlying health conditions, including bilateral pneumonia, bronchiectasis, hypertension, and type II diabetes.
Despite his deteriorating health, Pope Francis fulfilled his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, offering a blessing and message from the Loggia of Benedictions at St. Peter’s Basilica. Just hours before his death, he reportedly shared a quiet dinner and met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance. According to those present, his final moments were peaceful and free of suffering. His last known words were a simple, heartfelt “thank you” to his longtime health aide, Massimiliano Strappetti.
As the Catholic Church prepares to lay him to rest, Pope Francis is remembered not only for his humility and compassion, but also for his enduring impact on millions across the globe.
