Pope Francis’ spiritual testament and funeral arrangements have been revealed, offering a final glimpse into his humble wishes and the historic events unfolding in Vatican City today.
Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88. In a spiritual testament he wrote on June 29, 2022, he outlined his burial preferences and other final instructions. He asked for a simple grave in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, a place where he held close throughout his ministry.
Pope Francis arrives for his weekly private audience with the dioceses of Spoleto and Alessandria on September 17, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
He requested that his tomb be placed in the ground without ornamentation and carry only the inscription: Franciscus. Regarding the arrangements, he confirmed, “I have given the necessary instructions regarding this to Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, Extraordinary Commissioner of the Liberian Basilica.”
Pope Francis delivers his Urbi Et Orbi Blessing blessing from the balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square on April 20, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Today, Saturday, April 26, 2025, Pope Francis’ funeral is being held in St. Peter’s Square. The Mass, which began at 10:00 a.m., is led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals. After the ceremony, the coffin will be transferred to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major for burial, per the Pope’s wishes.
Pope Francis in the Sala Regia hall at the Vatican on January 9, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
In the opening of his testament, the late pontiff wrote, “In the name of the Most Holy Trinity. Amen.” He acknowledged “the approaching twilight of [his] earthly life” and expressed confidence in eternal life. Reflecting on his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he shared that he had entrusted himself to her throughout his ministry.
Pope Francis greets pilgrims during the “Jubilee Of The Sick And Health Care Workers” at St. Peter’s Square on April 6, 2025 in Vatican City | Source: Getty Images
He noted that Saint Mary Major had been a constant place of prayer during his life, where he sought the Blessed Mother’s intercession before and after each journey. He also provided specific burial instructions, asking for a grave located between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel.
Pope Francis waves at the audience during his weekly private audience with the dioceses of Spoleto and Alessandria in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican on September 17, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
The burial preparations were financed by a benefactor whose donation was arranged by the Pope himself. In keeping with his humble approach, Pope Francis asked for a “simple” funeral “without particular ornamentation.” Yet security preparations surrounding the event have been extensive.
A view during the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Dai Davies, a former head of Royal Protection for Britain’s royal family, described the funeral as a “Grade A” event, explaining, “The queen’s funeral, the king’s coronation, the Olympics, President Donald Trump’s inauguration − the pope’s funeral is at that level.”
Finland President Alexander Stubb, US President Donald Trump, and US First Lady Melania Trump attend the funeral of Pope Francis on April 26, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
An estimated crowd of several hundred thousand people was expected to gather in Vatican City to pay their respects. The participants include about 250 cardinals and a multitude of bishops, priests, and members of religious orders.
Members of the clergy attend the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
The Pope’s wooden and zinc coffin, sealed on Friday, was to be placed before the altar in St. Peter’s Square, facing the vast assembly. The Mass includes readings from the Acts of the Apostles, the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians, and the Gospel of John. Music is provided by the Sistine Chapel Choir, offering one last tribute to the Holy Father.
A general view during the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Prayers of the faithful are being recited in several languages, including French, Arabic, Portuguese, Polish, German, and Chinese. After the Mass, the funeral procession will move slowly through Rome, covering about four kilometers to reach Saint Mary Major.
Pallbearers carry the coffin during the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Along the way, Romans will have the chance to bid farewell to the Bishop of Rome, retracing a path he often traveled after apostolic trips and hospital stays. Upon arrival at the Basilica, the Pope’s coffin will be greeted by “the last ones,” a group of poor and marginalized individuals who held a special place in his heart.
The queue files past the late Pope Francis on April 25, 2025 in Vatican City | Source: Getty Images
The final moments of farewell will be private. Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell will seal the coffin, together with officials from the Prefecture of the Papal Household, the Office of Liturgical Celebrations, and the Liberian Chapter.
A view of the Pope Francis coffin as Cardinal Kevin Farrell presides in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Rite of Sealing of the Coffin, ahead of the papal funeral on Saturday morning, on April 25, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Following the Rite of Final Commendation, the Pope’s remains will be laid to rest and sprinkled with holy water. The burial will be officially documented by the notary of the Liberian Chapter and signed by those present, including the Camerlengo Cardinal and the Master of Papal Liturgical Celebrations.
The queue files past the late Pope Francis on April 25, 2025 in Vatican City | Source: Getty Images
The ceremony is expected to conclude around 2:00 p.m. Coverage of the funeral is being broadcast globally, with English commentary available online through Vatican Media channels. More than 130 countries and organizations have sent delegations, including 12 reigning monarchs, 55 heads of State, and 14 heads of Government.
A view of St. Peter’s Square as Vatican prepares for Pope Francis funeral on April 25, 2025 in Vatican City | Source: Getty Images
More than 4,000 journalists have registered to cover the funeral. Pope Francis closed his testament with a prayer for those who loved him and continued to pray for him. He offered his final sufferings “for peace in the world and for fraternity among peoples.” The document was signed simply, “FRANCIS,” and dated Santa Marta, June 29, 2022.