President Murmu, Donald Trump, other global dignitaries in Vatican for Pope Francis Funeral
President Droupadi Murmu, US President Donald Trump, and other global dignitaries are currently in Vatican City, Rome, ahead of Pope Francis’ mass funeral at St. Peter’s Square. Over 160 international delegations, including heads of state, royals, and officials, are expected to attend the ceremony. Following the funeral, Pope Francis — who died at the age of 88 — will be laid to rest in a humble yet profoundly symbolic tomb at St. Mary Major Basilica. The Vatican opened St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday for the public to pay their final respects, drawing thousands of mourners.
The Pope’s death: Pope Francis died on April 21 in Rome following a prolonged illness. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” announced Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo. The pontiff had been hospitalized on February 14 due to complications from bronchitis and was later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia. He spent over a month in medical care before returning to his residence to recover.
His death came just a day after a surprise appearance on Easter Sunday — his most prominent outing since falling seriously ill. During his 12-year papacy, Francis struggled with several health issues and had recently undergone respiratory therapy.
What happens next? With the pope’s death, the Catholic Church has entered a period of Sede Vacante — Latin for “the seat is vacant.” Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo or chamberlain of the Church, now leads the Vatican during this period. Appointed by Francis in 2019, Farrell is responsible for certifying the Pope’s death, sealing his private chambers, overseeing funeral rites, and organizing the conclave — the secretive election to choose a successor. Within 15 to 20 days, cardinals under the age of 80 will convene in the Sistine Chapel to vote. A two-thirds majority is needed to elect the next pope.
