The Vatican has released the first images of Pope Francis lying in state at the Santa Marta residence, where the 88-year-old pontiff passed away on Monday. The photos show the late pope dressed in traditional red vestments, wearing a mitre and holding a rosary, as the Catholic Church begins its meticulous transition process.
World leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have confirmed their attendance at the upcoming funeral, expected to occur between Friday and Sunday at St. Peter’s Basilica. Argentina has declared a week of national mourning, while India observes three days of state mourning – an exceptional tribute to the first Jesuit pope and first pontiff from the Americas.
The College of Cardinals convened Tuesday for their first general congregation, initiating the formal process leading to the conclave. While all cardinals may participate in preliminary meetings, only those under age 80 will vote for the next pope in the sealed Sistine Chapel election, expected within 15-20 days.
Francis’s body will lie in state at St. Peter’s starting Wednesday before burial at Santa Maria Maggiore basilica – breaking with recent tradition of Vatican interments. His will specifies a simple tomb marked only with his Latin name “Franciscus,” reflecting his lifelong preference for humility over pomp.
The death certificate attributes his passing to complications from a stroke that caused irreversible heart failure, following months of health struggles including a February hospitalization for pneumonia. Despite medical advice to rest, the tireless pope maintained a full public schedule until his final Easter Sunday appearance.
Global tributes continue pouring in for the reformist leader who championed migrants, environmental protection, and Church transparency while facing internal resistance to his progressive vision. As millions worldwide mourn, the intricate rituals of papal succession unfold in Rome, where the Church prepares to bid farewell to one of its most transformative modern figures while selecting his successor.
