The farewell begins: first general Congregation of cardinals
The first general Congregation of Cardinals has convened in the Synod Hall at the Vatican to formalize the farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away just days ago. According to the Ordo Exsequiarum Roman Pontificis, the liturgical text governing papal funerals, the ceremony must take place between the fourth and sixth day after death. The funeral will therefore be held on Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, presided over by Cardinal Dean Giovanni Battista Re.
A simple coffin and a rosary in his hands: the Pope rests in Santa Marta
The Vatican has released touching images of Pope Francis lying in a simple wooden coffin in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta, dressed in a red chasuble, with a rosary in his hands. This humble display reflects the simplicity and closeness that defined his pontificate. Tomorrow morning at 9, the coffin will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica, where it will remain for public homage until midnight.
“Death is a new beginning”: the Pope’s final spiritual message
An unpublished text by Pope Francis has been released posthumously — a preface to a new book by Cardinal Angelo Scola. In it, he writes: “Death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something new.” He continues: “Eternal life is something that begins here on Earth, and what lies ahead is something we’ve never fully experienced: eternity.” It is a moving spiritual testament that echoes the Pope’s enduring message of hope.
Global sorrow: from China to Gaza, condolences pour in
Messages of sympathy have come from around the world. Even China, through Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jiakun, offered its condolences and praised its constructive dialogue with the Vatican in recent years. From Gaza, Father Gabriel Romanelli shared memories of the Pope’s last phone call, a gesture of peace and closeness, made just before Easter, even from his hospital bed.
A nation in mourning: five days of grief and a pause for sports
The Italian government has declared five days of national mourning. Massive crowds are expected in Rome: more than 200,000 people and at least 100 foreign delegations will attend the funeral. In response, all sports events in Italyscheduled for Saturday have been suspended. A moment of silence will be observed in all competitive events during the week.
The Pope’s last words: “Thank you for taking me back to the square”
Pope Francis’s final hours were marked by humility and humanity. His personal nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti, recalled the Pope’s final words: “Thank you for taking me back to the square”. Even in his last moments, he expressed a desire to stay close to the faithful. A final gesture of blessing followed, just before falling into a coma — a moment that will forever remain in the hearts of those who served him.
State honors and silent ceremonies: Mattarella’s visit and security plans
Italian President Sergio Mattarella was among the first to pay homage at Santa Marta, accompanied by his daughter. The government has allocated €5 million for security and funeral logistics, as thousands are expected to flock to St. Peter’s. Celebrations for April 25, the anniversary of Italy’s liberation, will take place but with extraordinary solemnity, out of respect for the national mourning.
The legacy of a Pope who touched the world
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, humility, and peace. From his choice of name to his unwavering voice for the poor and oppressed, he has reshaped the image of the Church. On Saturday, April 26, the world will turn its eyes to Rome — not just to mourn a Pope, but to celebrate the life of a man who brought hope, even in silence.
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