Pope Francis In State: Live Updates & Funeral Details
As the world grapples with the profound loss of a spiritual leader, is it possible to truly capture the essence of Pope Francis's legacy? His life and papacy were a testament to humility, inclusivity, and a relentless focus on the marginalized, leaving an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world.
The solemnity of the moment is palpable. Pope Francis's body now lies in state within the hallowed walls of St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, a sacred space that has borne witness to centuries of history and faith. Mourners, their faces etched with a mixture of grief and reverence, have been slowly and steadily filing past the coffin, a tangible display of the profound impact he had on countless lives. The casket will remain positioned in front of the papal altar until the day of his funeral, a poignant focal point for prayer and remembrance.
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | Date information not provided, (but recent). |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Religious Order | Society of Jesus (Jesuits) |
| Ordained Priest | December 13, 1969 |
| Ordained Bishop | June 27, 1992 |
| Archbishop of Buenos Aires | 1998-2013 |
| Created Cardinal | February 21, 2001 |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Papal Motto | Miserando atque eligendo (Having mercy, he called him) |
| Known For | Humility, focus on the poor and marginalized, environmental advocacy, reform of the Vatican Curia, emphasis on mercy and compassion |
| Reference | Vatican Official Website |
The news of Pope Francis's passing has reverberated globally. Reports from CatholicPhilly, dated April 24, 2025, and other news outlets highlight the world's collective mourning. Digital platforms are offering comprehensive coverage, inviting readers to join in prayer and remembrance. The Vatican itself, along with various news organizations, are providing live coverage of the funeral and related events, ensuring that the faithful and the curious alike can participate in this solemn occasion.
St. Peter's Basilica, a symbol of Catholic faith and architectural splendor, will be open to the public for three days of viewing. This period of mourning, a time for reflection and farewell, is scheduled to conclude on Friday at 7 p.m. The basilica is extending its hours, remaining open until midnight to accommodate the large crowds expected to pay their respects. This gesture underscores the significance of Pope Francis's life and the widespread desire to honor his memory.
Viviana Pane, who spoke to NBC News, perfectly encapsulated the sentiment felt by many. She described Pope Francis as being "like a grandfather or a father," a testament to his approachable nature and his ability to connect with people on a deeply personal level. This sentiment echoes the common perception of Pope Francis as a leader who prioritized empathy, understanding, and human connection.
One of the most striking aspects of Pope Francis's papacy was his decision to reside in the Domus Sanctae Marthae (Saint Martha's House), a Vatican guesthouse, rather than the more opulent papal apartment. This choice, as many observers have noted, reflected his preference for a simpler lifestyle, a deliberate departure from tradition that resonated with his message of humility and service. This decision speaks volumes about the man and his priorities as head of the Catholic Church.
Vatican News remains a primary source of information, providing the latest updates on Pope Francis, the Holy See, and the Church's activities worldwide. The website has been, and will continue to be, a critical resource for anyone seeking accurate and up-to-date information during this time of transition and grief.
As the world prepares to bid farewell, the funeral for Pope Francis is scheduled for Saturday. ABC News will provide live coverage, beginning at 3:30 a.m. ET, on its various platforms, including ABC stations, ABC News Live, Disney+, and Hulu. This extensive coverage is a testament to the global importance of the event, providing access to the proceedings for a vast audience.
The anticipation surrounding the funeral is high. The event is expected to draw numerous heads of state and dignitaries. Among those expected to attend is former President Donald Trump. The details, including the timing (10 a.m. ET), suggest the significance of this moment for the global community.
Pope Francis's wish to be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, rather than St. Peter's Basilica or its grottoes, is another sign of his humility and his connection to the wider community. This decision underscores his commitment to simplicity and his desire to be close to the people he served. This specific choice speaks volumes about his personal preferences and his unwavering devotion.
Euronews is providing live updates and in-depth coverage, capturing the unfolding events and providing context for this significant moment in history. The platform is a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the broader implications of the Pope's death and the subsequent events.
Over 100 delegations from across the globe are expected to arrive in Rome on Friday to pay their respects to the late Pope. The scale of this gathering underscores the global reach and influence of Pope Francis, his teachings, and his ministry. The outpouring of grief is a powerful indicator of the impact of his life.
The world is united in paying tribute to Pope Francis, a figure who both challenged the Catholic Church's conservative factions and inspired progressives. His death, reported on Wednesday at the age of 88, has prompted an outpouring of grief and reflection on his legacy. His humility, openness, and tireless work for the disadvantaged have left a lasting impression.
Pope Francis's death was a deeply moving event. His influence, known for his humility and his dedication to outreach efforts across cultures and faiths, is widely recognized. The Vatican's announcement brought a period of mourning. The pontiff's funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, according to the Vatican.
Throughout the period of mourning, news outlets are providing live updates, offering context and insights as events unfold. These resources are invaluable for keeping up with the latest developments and understanding the broader significance of this moment.
In the face of this loss, the Vatican has honored the Pope's preference. The live video or audio transmission of the events have been limited. However, in consideration of the emergency and the need to be close to those suffering, the morning liturgy will be broadcast live. This balance, combining respect for his preferences with compassion for the faithful, highlights the Church's response.
The media is reporting from the Casa Santa Marta, the residence where Pope Francis lived. The choice to reside in this guesthouse rather than the papal apartment highlighted his commitment to simplicity. The guesthouse, built in 1996, served as an ancient hospice for the poor.
The media has also provided information about the Pope's health crisis. The information included the fact that he was the first Latin American and Jesuit pope. It also noted that he was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He was a pioneer in the Roman Catholic Church.
In summary, the events of Wednesday, April 23, 2025, and Thursday, April 24, 2025, are significant. The information provided is extensive and insightful. The crowds waiting to view the body are a poignant reminder of the magnitude of this event.
The papal suite, with its chapel, offices, and living spaces, is a traditional symbol of the papacy. Pope Pius X was the first pope to live in the papal apartments. However, the modifications, including the remodeled rooms, by Pope Paul VI in 1964, and subsequent renovations, are noted as the backdrop of historical significance.
Pope Francis's election in March 2013, followed the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. This rare event and the circumstances surrounding the succession have generated significant interest. His influence will be discussed and will be examined for years to come.
His passing has created a moment of mourning for the Vatican and a time of reflection for the faithful. This time is a poignant moment for the Church.
Inside St. Peter's Basilica, the images and the procession serve as a powerful tribute. The open casket and the queue of mourners evoke a profound sense of respect.
As the world watches, the final days of mourning and the preparations for the funeral are underway. The body of Pope Francis lies in state. The solemnity of this event will have a lasting impact.
