Funeral Date Set for Pope Francis

As Catholics around the world learn of the death of Pope Francis, we are called to unite in prayer.

Following the death of Pope Francis on Monday, April 21, Vatican officials have been working to schedule the events of the papal funeral.

What Has Already Happened?

On the evening of April 21, the formal verification of the pope's death took place in a prayer service in the chapel of the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where Pope Francis lived. The papal apartment was then sealed.

What Happens Next?

The Vatican has announced that the papal funeral will take place Saturday, April 26, in Saint Peter's Square. It will be streamed on EWTN.

The funeral marks the beginning of nine official days of mourning and daily memorial Masses.

The pope's body will be taken to Saint Peter's Basilica early on April 23 for public viewing and prayer until the evening of Friday, April 25, when the coffin will be closed during a prayer service.

The canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis, which had been scheduled for April 27, has been postponed until after the papal election.

What Can We Do?

Father Fred Jenga, C.S.C., President of Holy Cross Family Ministries (of which Catholic Mom is a part) has encouraged us all to pray the Rosary and to pray at Mass for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

In the days to come, we will strive to keep you updated on events surrounding the Pope's funeral and the conclave to elect a new pope.

Copyright 2025 Barb Szyszkiewicz
Images: Canva; Holy Cross Family MInistries