Pope Francis Dies at 88: Vatican Prepares for His Funeral and Pays Tribute to His Legacy
Pope Francis, known for his humility and efforts to reach out to people of various backgrounds and faiths, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican announced.
His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26. Pope Francis died on Monday following a series of health complications, including a diagnosis of double pneumonia that led to a prolonged hospital stay earlier this year.
Watch Live Coverage of Pope Francis’ Funeral
ABC News will provide live coverage of the Pope’s funeral on Saturday, beginning at 3:30 a.m. ET on ABC stations and streaming on ABC News Live, Disney+, and Hulu.
Pope Francis Through the Years: A Photo Tribute
Latest Updates:
3 minutes ago
Around 61,000 Visitors Have Paid Their Respects at St. Peter’s Basilica
As of Thursday afternoon, about 61,000 people have visited St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their respects to the late Pope Francis, according to the Vatican press office.
People queue to pay their respects to the body of Pope Francis lying in state inside St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, April 24, 2025.
- Antonio Masiello/Getty Images
Visitors Can Continue Paying Tribute Through Friday
- ABC News’ Phoebe Natanson, April 23, 2025, 10:26 AM PDT
Earlier Updates:
Apr 23, 2025, 8:25 AM PDT
25,000 People Have Visited St. Peter’s Square
Around 25,000 people have visited St. Peter’s Square since Wednesday morning, the Italian Police confirmed to ABC News. The line is expected to grow, with many more arriving to pay tribute.
Vatican Considers Extending Hours for Visitors to Pay Respects
Due to the overwhelming number of visitors, the Vatican is considering extending the hours for those wishing to pay their respects to Pope Francis, potentially beyond midnight, said the Vatican Press Office.
Vance Will Not Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral
United States Vice President JD Vance has confirmed he won’t attend Pope Francis’ funeral but expressed his sorrow over the pontiff’s passing. Vance recalled meeting Pope Francis briefly on Easter Sunday, remembering him for his care and advocacy for marginalized groups.
April 22, 2025, 2:45 PM PDT
Pope Francis’ Coffin Moved to St. Peter’s Basilica for Public Viewing
The late Pope’s coffin was transported from the Chapel of Santa Marta to St. Peter’s Basilica, where it will remain on display until his funeral. Mourners lined the streets to honor the late pontiff as the procession passed.
Prince William Will Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral
Prince William, the Prince of Wales, will represent His Majesty The King at the funeral of Pope Francis, Kensington Palace has confirmed.
Pope Francis’ Lasting Legacy:
Pope Francis’ passing marks the end of an era of humility, compassion, and global outreach. He will be remembered as a champion for the poor, advocating for peace, climate action, and interfaith dialogue. His leadership touched millions worldwide, and his loss leaves a profound void in the Catholic Church and beyond.