As funeral arrangements for Pope Francis move forward, a remarkable assembly of world leaders is preparing to gather in Rome to honor one of the most reform-minded Popes in recent memory. The outdoor funeral, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, will take place in front of St. Peter’s Basilica and be attended by heads of state, royals, and religious leaders from around the globe.
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., world leaders and dignitaries from around the globe will convene in Vatican City for the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. The funeral will take place outdoors in St. Peter’s Square, where thousands of mourners have already gathered to pay their respects during his lying in state.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, is recognized as one of the most reform-oriented popes in contemporary history. He made history as the first Latin American and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. His passing came after several weeks of deteriorating health following a five-week hospitalization for double pneumonia earlier this year. His death was ultimately caused by a stroke and, afterward, a heart failure.
In honor of his legacy of humility and compassion, Francis’s funeral has attracted an impressive array of global figures. Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, and Melania Trump, the former First Lady, will be in attendance, joined by Prince William, who will represent King Charles III. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva are anticipated to attend, showcasing the Pope’s extensive influence.
Among the additional dignitaries are European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Argentine President Javier Milei, and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who represents the largest Catholic nation in Asia. President Michael D. Higgins and Taoiseach Micheál Martin will be present from Ireland. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, along with U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, have confirmed their attendance.
Francis’s body has been resting in state at St. Peter’s Basilica since Wednesday, with tens of thousands waiting in line for hours beneath the spring sun. The coffin is set to be sealed during a liturgical rite on Friday evening before the official funeral mass scheduled for the following morning.
Saturday’s service will serve as a significant farewell, commemorating the conclusion of a transformative papacy while bringing together faith leaders, politicians, and citizens from across the globe to pay tribute to a man celebrated for his message of mercy, justice, and global solidarity.
