The funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away at 88 following a stroke and heart failure, will be held Saturday at St. Peter's Square, marking the beginning of nine days of national mourning.

Pope Francis's death marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church, as he was the first pope from the Americas and known for his efforts in promoting social justice and interfaith dialogue. The upcoming funeral, which starts at 9am UK time and presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, is expected to draw numerous global dignitaries and millions of faithful, reflecting his impact on the Church and the world. As mourners prepare to pay their respects and the nine-day mourning period unfolds, attention will also shift to the future of the papacy, with a conclave to select his successor scheduled for May 2025, signaling a pivotal moment in the Church's trajectory.

Beginning at 10am local time, the funeral will take place in St. Peter's Square and will feature a liturgy led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. The ceremony is expected to draw a significant attendance, including local citizens.

Prior to the funeral, mourners wishing to pay their respects will be permitted to do so starting Wednesday morning. This open period allows for a respite from their daily routines to honor the late Pope, who advocated for compassion and humility throughout his tenure.

Following the service, Pope Francis's coffin will be transported to St Peter's Basilica. Subsequently, it will be taken to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where he will be interred. The Pope had requested a simple burial, devoid of ornamentation, with only his name, 'Franciscus,' inscribed on the coffin. This decision reflects his personal values and teachings, emphasizing simplicity and a return to faith fundamentals.

As the procession occurs, it will include a group of Cardinals who will accompany the coffin in a show of respect and solidarity. This procession is expected to be a solemn and significant moment for both attendees and the wider Catholic community, symbolizing the unity of the Church during this time of grief.

The funeral's scale also reflects the global influence of Pope Francis. Dignitaries, including former President Donald Trump and other international leaders, are confirmed to attend. Their presence highlights the Pope's role, not only as a spiritual leader but as a prominent figure in global affairs, addressing pressing issues such as climate change, poverty, and human rights.

In the wake of his passing, the Catholic Church enters a period of reflection and preparation for the future. The conclave to elect a new pope is set to commence on May 5, 2025. Cardinal electors will convene in strict confidentiality, tasked with the significant responsibility of identifying the next leader of the Church, who will continue Pope Francis's legacy or potentially guide the Church in a different direction.

The process of selecting a new pope is intricate, requiring the Cardinal Electors to remain sealed off until a decision has been reached. This method ensures that the selection is both thoughtful and deliberative amid the various pressures and expectations surrounding the Papacy.

As the nation observes the funeral and subsequent mourning period, it marks not only a farewell to a revered leader but also a moment for Catholics worldwide to contemplate their faith and the future direction of the Church. Communities are expected to gather for prayers and memorials in tribute to the contributions made by Pope Francis during his pivotal role at the Vatican.