World leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of mourners are gathered at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City to honour the life and legacy of Pope Francis.
Those attending the solemn funeral ceremony include U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Also present are Argentine President Javier Milei and Britain’s Prince William. The burial marks the end of a historic papacy that left a lasting impact on the Catholic Church and the world
Francis died on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
ardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
