Aasai

The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis’s funeral will take place this Saturday at St. Peter’s Square, following his sudden death at the age of 88. Leaders from around the globe, including U.S. President Donald Trump, Argentina’s President Javier Milei, and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, are expected to attend the historic ceremony.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, passed away on Monday after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest. His death ends a 12-year papacy marked by fierce battles with traditionalists and bold advocacy for the poor, minorities, and marginalized communities. His body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica from Wednesday morning, giving the faithful a chance to say goodbye.

 Breaking with centuries of tradition, Francis requested to be buried in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major rather than St. Peter’s. His passing has triggered ancient Church rituals, including the ceremonial breaking of the “Fisherman’s Ring” and preparations for the secretive conclave that will elect his successor starting in early May.

During his tenure, Pope Francis pushed for sweeping reforms, tackling internal corruption, modernizing the Church’s governance, and championing progressive causes. Although he appointed the majority of the cardinals who will vote for the next pope, Vatican insiders say no clear successor has yet emerged.