Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at 88 after health struggles, will be remembered in a grand funeral on April 26 in St. Peter's Square, attended by over 200,000 mourners, including world leaders.

The funeral for Pope Francis, scheduled for April 26 at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter's Square, represents not just a farewell to a beloved leader but also a moment of reflection on his profound influence on the Catholic Church and global society. Notable figures, including President Donald Trump and various heads of state, are expected to honor his legacy of compassion and reform during the service, which will incorporate traditional Catholic rites with simplifications that align with his humble approach to leadership. Following the ceremony, Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, honoring his final wishes and marking the beginning of a nine-day mourning period for the faithful.

Pope Francis's body arrived at St. Peter's Basilica, where public visitation began on Wednesday. Mourners have gathered in large numbers to pay their respects to the pontiff, reflecting the deep impact he had on millions around the world during his papacy. This outpouring of grief has drawn both longtime followers and onlookers wishing to honor the leader known for championing the marginalized and promoting interfaith dialogue.

The funeral Mass will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who will be joined by numerous cardinals, archbishops, bishops, and priests from across the globe. The participation of such a wide array of Church leaders demonstrates the far-reaching influence of Pope Francis, who engaged with various facets of Catholicism and worked to address contemporary issues, including climate change and social justice.

In keeping with Pope Francis's wishes, the service will feature elements of traditional Catholic funeral rites, streamlined to reflect his humble nature. The goal is to celebrate his life while also adhering to the principles he promoted throughout his papacy, focusing on unity, love, and service to others. The choice of St. Peter's Square, a site of significant importance in Catholicism, further emphasizes the solemnity and grandeur of the occasion.

World leaders and dignitaries will come together for the funeral, with an estimated attendance exceeding 200,000 people. The presence of prominent figures such as President Donald Trump and Prince William illustrates the global recognition of Pope Francis's role in both spiritual leadership and international diplomacy. Dignitaries from countries including France, Brazil, and Ukraine will also be in attendance, highlighting the universal appeal and important relationships forged during his tenure as pope.

After the funeral service concludes, a procession will transport Pope Francis's body to his final resting place at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome. This burial site was chosen in adherence to his personal request, deviating from the tradition of interring popes in St. Peter's Basilica. This decision holds significance, as it reflects his desire for simplicity and connection to the historical roots of the Church.

Following the funeral, a nine-day period of mourning will commence, during which daily Masses will be held across the Vatican and in various local parishes. This devotion will allow the faithful to engage in prayer and reflection, further solidifying Pope Francis's enduring impact on their lives and the Church. The mourning period also aims to inspire remembrance of his teachings and compassion, inviting those affected by his loss to come together in solidarity.

Major news networks will provide live coverage of the funeral, allowing those unable to attend in person to witness the proceedings and participate in the collective grieving. As Pope Francis's legacy unfolds, his teachings will likely continue to resonate within the Church and in society at large, providing a foundation for future leaders to build upon.