Live Stream of Pope Francis’ Funeral from St. Peter’s Square

The funeral of Pope Francis, being live-streamed from St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, marks a significant moment as thousands gather to pay their respects. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, he became the 266th pope on March 13, 2013, making history as the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to elevate to this esteemed position. His papacy was characterized by his focus on mercy, humility, social justice, and environmental issues, along with efforts to reform the Vatican bureaucracy and engage with marginalized communities worldwide. After a prolonged period of ill health, he passed away recently, prompting this momentous funeral.

Pope Francis’s funeral is set for Saturday, April 26, beginning at 10 a.m. local time, which equates to 4 a.m. ET and 1 a.m. PST. The public Mass will take place before St. Peter’s Basilica, with Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presiding over the proceedings. Notably, the ceremony is anticipated to be less formal than previous papal funerals, as Francis had previously instituted changes that included the use of a modest wooden coffin, reflecting his humility and simplicity.

The funeral events commence early Saturday at 8:30 a.m., where archbishops and bishops will gather in the Vatican’s Braccio di Costantino, donned in traditional white liturgical vestments. By 9 a.m., patriarchs and cardinals will convene at the Chapel of San Sebastiano, preparing for the formal Mass at 10 a.m. Cardinal Re will lead the service alongside an assembly of senior clergy and world leaders, including figures such as former President Donald Trump. The Mass will conclude with traditional prayers marking the initiation of a nine-day period of mourning within the Church.

In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis requested to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a church that he held dear, instead of within Vatican City. This choice underscores his personal connection to the sanctuary, which he visited regularly before and after international travels. In his last testament, he emphasized this wish, reflecting his faith and gratitude towards the iconography represented by the Virgin. Upon his burial, he will be honored by a group of impoverished individuals, aligning with his lifelong commitment to social justice.

Following the funeral, a nine-day mourning period will commence, after which preparations will begin for the conclave to elect the next pope. This event occurs in the Sistine Chapel, where eligible cardinals will convene for a private, secretive meeting. The election process involves multiple voting rounds, requiring a two-thirds majority to choose the new pope. The outcome will be communicated to the public through the famous smoke signals from the chapel’s chimney—black smoke indicating no decision and white smoke signifying a successful election.

The significance of Pope Francis’s impact on the Church and the world cannot be overstated. His initiatives regarding environmental stewardship, advocacy for the marginalized, and reforms within the Vatican have altered the trajectory of contemporary Catholicism. As people worldwide gather to mourn and celebrate his life, it is a moment of reflection on his contributions and legacy, ensuring that his message of compassion and inclusivity continues to resonate throughout the Church and beyond.