The Vatican has set up a viewing area for the public to pay their respects to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. The Pope’s body was moved to St. Peter’s Basilica, where it will remain until the funeral on April 26. The funeral will take place at St. Peter’s Square, with world leaders, including US former President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Argentine President Javier Milei, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expected to attend.
Cause of Death
According to the Vatican, Pope Francis died due to complications from a stroke and heart failure. The Pope’s body was placed in a simple coffin, as per his wishes, and was dressed in red vestments, with a mitre on his head and a rosary in his hands.
Funeral Plans
The Pope’s funeral will be followed by his burial at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome, Italy, as per his wishes. The basilica has been chosen because of its historical significance and its connection to the Pope’s devotion to the Virgin Mary. The Vatican has not announced a date for the conclave to elect a new Pope, but it is expected to take place after May 5, following the traditional 15- to 20-day process.
In a testament released on June 29, 2022, Pope Francis expressed his desire to be buried in a simple grave, without any elaborate decorations, and to have his name “Francis Ksav” engraved on the tombstone. The costs associated with the funeral arrangements will be covered by donations made to the Vatican.
In Thailand, the government has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast from April 23 to 25 as a mark of respect for the late Pope. The Catholic Church in Thailand has also issued a statement expressing its condolences and inviting Catholics to pray for the Pope’s soul. The Church noted that Pope Francis had been a shining example of Christian discipleship and had worked tirelessly for the poor, the marginalized, and the environment.