A Farewell to Pope Francis: A Journey of Remembrance and Reflection
The Pope rests on a wooden coffin lined with red velvet, wearing a purple chasuble and a white miter, and he holds a rosary in his hands. EFE/ Francesco Sforza/Dicasterio
April 23, 2025 Hour: 12:32 am
As the world prepares to say goodbye to Pope Francis, a profound sense of reverence and celebration fills the air.
You can watch this ceremony live stream on our YouTube channel.
The farewell ceremonies scheduled for April 23 and beyond will not only honor his legacy but also reflect his deeply held beliefs about simplicity, service, and pastoral care.
Join us as we delve into the details surrounding this significant event and the rituals that will mark the final farewell to this beloved leader of the Catholic Church.
The Procession Begins
On Wednesday, April 23, at 9:00 AM local time, the solemn journey will commence as the casket containing Pope Francis’s body is transported from the Chapel of Santa Maria to St. Peter’s Basilica.
This moment will be preceded by a prayer service led by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.
The official communication from the Vatican indicates that the procession will take a meaningful route through key locations, including Santa Marta Square and the Square of the Roman Protomartyrs.
Following this, the procession will ascend to St. Peter’s Square and enter the Basilica through the central door, a pathway rich with symbolism and history.
Once inside, a liturgy of the Word will be celebrated at the Altar of the Confession, presided over by the Cardinal Camerlengo.
This moment will be significant as it transitions into public visitation hours, allowing the faithful to pay their respects to the Pope who dedicated his life to serving the church and its followers.
Public Vigil: A Time for Reflection
The public viewing of Pope Francis will begin on April 23 and extend until Friday, April 25, concluding at 7:00 PM local time.
The Basilica will remain open late into the night over the first two days, accommodating thousands of pilgrims and admirers wishing to honor the pontiff.
Specific visiting hours are as follows:
- Wednesday, April 23: 11:00 AM to Midnight
- Thursday, April 24: 7:00 AM to Midnight
- Friday, April 25: Until 7:00 PM
This open vigil is designed to emphasize Pope Francis’s role as a shepherd of the Catholic Church rather than a political figure, as the casket will be displayed in a simple manner, reflecting his wishes.
This approach departs from traditional practices where previous popes have been laid upon a raised platform, known as the papal catafalque.
The Funeral Ceremony
Following the period of public visitation, Pope Francis’s funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 AM local time. A white cloth will cover his face, a customary practice during papal funerals that signifies purity and peace.
The funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica promises to draw immense crowds, both inside and outside, as people gather to celebrate the life and contributions of this remarkable pontiff.
During the homily, reflections on Pope Francis’s spiritual journey and his impact on the global Catholic community will resonate throughout the Basilica.
It’s noteworthy that Pope Francis presided over the funeral of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, highlighting the continuity of leadership and shared faith within the church.
In a notable tradition, the cardinal who currently holds the office of Camerlengo, Cardinal Giovanni Battista, will oversee the proceedings, although his age raises questions about continuing this tradition.
After the funeral rites, a series of Masses in memory of Pope Francis will be conducted over nine days, known as “novendialis,” which carries the significance of mourning in Roman Catholic tradition.
The Final Resting Place
Historically, popes were buried in various locations, with early burials taking place in the catacombs outside Rome.
Since Christianity’s recognition, burial practices have evolved, leading to recent popes being interred beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
Pope Francis expressed a desire for a more modest burial, consistent with his views on humility and simplicity.
The funeral procession is expected to wind through the heart of Rome before arriving at Santa Maria Maggiore, accompanied by other vehicles in a quiet display of honor and respect.
After the final prayers and the sprinkling of holy water, Pope Francis’s casket will be placed in its permanent resting place within the church, a poignant conclusion to a life devoted to faith and service.
A Legacy Remembered
As we prepare for the farewell to Pope Francis, we join in collective mourning and celebration of a leader who profoundly impacted millions worldwide.
His commitment to social justice, humility, and inclusivity leaves an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the broader global community.
The upcoming days will not only serve as a farewell but also as an opportunity to reflect on his teachings and the spirit of compassion he embodied throughout his papacy.
In honoring his memory, we embrace the values he championed, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.