Pope Francis funeral LIVE: Trump, Zelensky and Prince William join thousands for historic Vatican service

LIVE – Last update at 8:14 PM

Pope Francis was buried on Saturday after he passed away at the age of 88 , approximately 400,000 mourners assembled in Vatican Town to say a last goodbye—surpassing original predictions.

The event deviated from Vatican customs, since Francis insisted on a more modest funeral featuring just one plain wooden casket instead of the customary tri-casket arrangement utilized for former popes.

During the ceremony, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re addressed those present, stating that Pope Francis’s “last picture” will always show him meeting with faithful followers despite his significant health challenges on Easter Sunday.

The concluding image we retain of him, deeply imprinted in our memories, within our gaze, and deep in our hearts, is from last Sunday, Easter Sunday, when despite significant health issues, Pope Francis chose to bestow his blessings upon us from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica,” stated Cardinal Re.

"He then came down to this square to greet from his open pope-mobile the large crowd gathered for the Easter mass."

Among the 170 international delegutions present were U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Prince William. As Zelensky exited St. Peter's Basilica, he received warm applause. and supposedly met briefly with President Trump , with additional talks scheduled following the funeral.

Previously, President Trump along with First Lady Melania had a private time within St. Peter's Basilica near the Pope's coffin. Ex-US President Joe Biden was also there and was observed being helped down stairs by his spouse Jill and a clergy member.

Our live blog will provide you with minute-to-minute coverage of this momentous day. Rome as the Catholic Church is set to choose its new leader in the upcoming weeks.

Mourners gather for rosary

20:14 , Bill Bowkett

People have assembled for the recitation of the rosary, which consists of a series of prayers, near the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Vatican City after the funeral of Pope Francis.

Almost 250 delegations were present.

20:00 , Bill Bowkett

Rome's police chief, Lamberto Giannini, stated that around 249 delegations, encompassing leaders, royalty, and religious figures, were present at Francis' funeral. This number exceeded those attending Pope John Paul II's funeral in 2005 by about 80 individuals.

Four arrested for pickpocketing

19:24 , Bill Bowkett

Despite the good behaviour from those in attendance, Italian police said they arrested four people on suspicion of pickpocketing during the funeral.

Sinn Fein: Francis, a person of 'great bravery'

19:06 , Bill Bowkett

The Northern Ireland First Minister and deputy leader of Sinn Féin, Michelle O'Neill, stated: "We bid farewell to a leader of significant standing, extraordinary bravery, and profound modesty. A person who upheld a compelling vision for a society that was more equitable, righteous, and tranquil."

Trump shifts his stance against Putin

19:01 , Bill Bowkett

This is the complete post from U.S. President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform where he criticized Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

“No matter what deal I make with respect to Russia/Ukraine, no matter how good it is, even if it’s the greatest deal ever made, The Failing New York Times will speak BADLY of it. Liddle’ Peter Baker, the very biased and untalented writer for The Times, followed his Editor’s demands and wrote that Ukraine should get back territory, including, I suppose, Crimea, and other ridiculous requests, in order to stop the killing that is worse than anything since World War II.

“Why doesn’t this lightweight reporter say that it was Obama who made it possible for Russia to steal Crimea from Ukraine without even a shot being fired. It was also Liddle’ Peter who wrote an absolutely fawning, yet terribly written Biography, on Obama. It was a JOKE! Did Baker ever criticize the Obama Crimea Giveaway? NO, not once, only TRUMP, and I’ve had nothing to do with this stupid war, other than early on, when I gave Ukraine Javelins, and Obama gave them sheets.

This is Sleepy Joe Biden’s war, not mine. It has been doomed since the beginning, and shouldn't have occurred in the first place. If I had been president then, this would not have taken place. All I'm doing now is attempting to fix the disaster handed over to me by Obama and Biden, and boy, what a catastrophe it turned out to be.

Given everything mentioned above, there was no justification for Putin to launch missiles at civilian regions, including cities and towns, during recent days. This leads me to believe he might not intend to end the conflict; instead, he seems to be merely prodding us. Thus, we may have to address this issue using alternative methods such as 'Financial Restrictions' or 'Secondary Sanctions.' The death toll is far too high!!!

'400,000 people attend funeral'

18:50 , Bill Bowkett

The Italian Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosti, informed the news program TG5 that we estimate at least 400,000 individuals were either in Saint Peter’s Square or following the procession along the route.

Who might become the next Pope?

18:40 , Bill Bowkett

The gathering of the Catholic College of Cardinals to choose a new pope stands as one of the most ancient processes for selecting a head of state.

Columnist Melanie McDonagh examines the candidates vying for the position.

Unveiled: Information About the Pope's Burial

18:20 , Bill Bowkett

The Vatican has provided further information regarding the burial of the Pope.

They mentioned that Francis was interred in the side aisle of the Basilica of St Mary Major, situated between the Pauline Chapel, which houses his cherished icon of Our Lady 'Salus Populi Romani', and the Sforza Chapel.

Before the burial ceremony, four psalms were recited followed by a concluding prayer.

His casket was laid inside the sepulcher and doused with consecrated water whilst Regina Caeli was chanted.

Trump charges Putin with 'leading him on' regarding Ukraine peace discussions.

18:08 , Bill Bowkett

Donald Trump accused Vladimir Putin of leading him on regarding peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia after an unusual bilateral discussion with Volodomyr Zelenskyy prior to the Pope's funeral.

The U.S. President is growing more irritated with Russia’s reluctance to swiftly agree on a truce agreement and believes that the Russian leader "is not interested in ending the conflict."

Read more here.

Priest: The Meeting Between Trump and Zelensky Was Like 'A Miracle from Pope Francis'

17:58 , Bill Bowkett

Father Francesco Giordano, Professor Father and attendee at Pope Francis' funeral on Saturday, shared with Sky News his thoughts: "The event was deeply touching. Witnessing what people are referring to as 'Pope Francis’s miracle,' which includes meetings like those between Trump and Zelensky, along with numerous other occurrences from today—it all felt quite overpowering."

Zelensky meets with Starmer following Pope's funeral

14:13 , Josh Butler

Volodymyr Zelensky continued his series of discussions with previous interactions involving Donald Trump and various European leaders who were present for the Pope’s funeral, by holding a meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The President of Ukraine strolled and conversed with the British Prime Minister following the end of the ceremony. During this event, he also addressed journalists regarding the delicacy of queries related to peace negotiations that include both the US and Russia.

In an interview with a Ukrainian reporter, Zelensky mentioned his recent discussions with European and Ukrainian officials during their gatherings in Paris and London, stating, "Our aim is to keep these sessions going to achieve peace for Ukraine."

Swinney praises 'deeply touching' and 'inspiring' funeral

13:33 , Sami Quadri

John Swinney described the funeral of Pope Francis as "deeply touching" and "inspiring" following his attendance at the service in the Vatican.

The First Minister additionally shared his personal journey with Christianity, stating that it "defines who I am."

One among numerous Scots journeyed to Rome for the burial ceremony after the passing of the head of the Catholic Church on Easter Monday.

Mr Swinney spoke with the PA news agency from St Peter’s Square shortly after the ceremony.

He stated, "The ceremony was deeply touching and highly dignified, honoring a lifetime dedicated to advocating for the welfare of the underprivileged and supporting individuals striving for justice."

But also an inspiring ceremony conveying Pope Francis' message of hope for humanity.

The Pope's casket was transported to its final resting location.

12:44 , Josh Butler

The final opportunity for the public to view Pope Francis' casket was as it made its way into the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore for burial.

The remainder of the funeral service will be conducted privately as the Pope is interred in a modest grave marked solely with the inscription " Franciscus," which is Latin for his selected papal name.

Zelensky hails "possibly historic" meeting with Trump

12:36 , Josh Butler

Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he had a "productive meeting" with President Trump before attending the Pope’s funeral ceremony today, noting that their discussion holds the potential to be historically significant.

The Ukrainian president made the statement on X after his spoke with his American counterpart.

He said: "Good meeting. We discussed a lot one on one. Hoping for results on everything we covered.

Safeguarding the lives of our citizens. A complete and unconditioned halt fire. A trustworthy and enduring peace that ensures another conflict does not erupt.

A highly symbolic gathering with the potential to be historic, should we attain shared outcomes.

Trump leaves Rome

12:29 , Josh Butler

Donald Trump departed from Rome aboard Air Force One, as seen here alongside his wife Melania waving farewell at the Leonardo da Vinci International Airport.

The US President allegedly spoke with Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Zelensky during their attendance at the Pope’s funeral earlier today.

Santa Maria Maggiore -- the church where the Pope selected to be buried.

12:21 , Josh Butler

Pope Francis will be the first pope in 100 years who won’t be interred at the Vatican; he has opted instead to have his final resting place in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore.

His casket will stay at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, a place of special importance to the deceased pontiff.

Francis had a deep respect for the Virgin Mary, and the Santa Maria Maggiore was the initial church constructed specifically for her veneration.

Today marks the first occasion since Pope Leo XIII's burial in 1903 where a Pope will be laid to rest outside of the Vatican boundaries.

Pope Francis will become the 8th Pope interred at the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and one of approximately 90 Popes not buried within the Vatican grounds.

The coffin completes its last trip in an adapted 'popemobile.'

11:50 , Josh Butler

The Pope's casket is currently being transferred in an armored 'papamobile' hearse to the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, where it will remain.

The automobile is an altered edition of the armored vehicle utilized by the Pope for safely interacting with crowds while still being able to be seen.

Many people have assembled in the roads to observe and honor the deceased Pope as his procession moves through the streets of Rome.

In the far-off echo, bells chime as mourners clap and shout in celebration of the procession's passage.

The Italian Interior Ministry informed Sky News that law enforcement officers have been stationed every ten meters along the route where the hearse will pass through.

Shown: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump having a meeting at St. Peter's Basilica

11:46 , Sami Quadri

Shown: European leaders engaged in discussion with Trump

11:38 , Josh Butler

Keir Starmer, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Emmanuel Macron are seen conversing with Donald Trump prior to participating in the funeral service for Pope Francis.

A number of politicians and high-ranking officials seem to be capitalizing on the unusual concentration of diplomatic presence at the Pope’s funeral, as numerous heads of state and government leaders were gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

According to reports, Trump had discussions with several state officials such as Prime Minister Zelensky before the ceremony earlier today. He also intends to have an additional meeting scheduled for later today.

The funeral service concludes as the casket is taken away.

11:20 , Josh Butler

The requiem Mass has ended at the Vatican, where the Pope’s casket was brought back inside St. Peter’s Basilica.

The pallbearers carried the casket as the more than 250,000-strong gathering of mourners clapped softly.

The Pope's casket was purified using incense and blessed with holy water.

11:07 , Josh Butler

The Pope's casket was 'purified' using incense and blessed with holy water as part of the concluding rituals, during which a prayer from the Eastern Christian Church was recited.

During his papacy, the Pope specifically aimed to bridge the gap between the Eastern and Western Churches.

The prayer was succeeded by the clergy performing a song.

Shown: emotional moments of sorrow and sentimentality as the Pope's funeral concludes.

10:56 , Josh Butler

The ceremony is nearing its end as concluding prayers are recited, and the congregation offers their last farewells to the recently departed Pope.

The ceremony comes to an end with a last goodbye.

10:43 , Josh Butler

As the funeral service draws to a close, Dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, prays that God will welcome the departed Pope into His embrace and seeks solace for the Catholic Church during this time.

For the concluding part of the ceremony, holy water will be sprinkled on the coffin, followed by incense, after the final prayers have been recited.

Cardinal Battista stated: "Beloved brothers and sisters, let us entrust to God's compassionate care the spirit of Pope Francis, who was the leader of the Catholic Church."

"Church, who confirmed his brothers and sisters in the faith of the resurrection."

Photos of the Papal Ceremony: Huge throngs stand in perfect formation to hear the service

10:38 , Josh Butler

Fist bumps for harmony - Trump and Macron share an act of good will

10:34 , Josh Butler

Politicians have apparently been instructed to exchange handshakes with those seated around them as a symbol of peace and camaraderie during the Pope’s funeral ceremony.

President Trump and President Macron were seen momentarily setting their disagreements apart to acknowledge an act of kindness.

Prince William talked to Trump before the ceremony.

10:23 , Josh Butler

Kensington Palace stated that The Prince of Wales briefly spoke with President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump as he headed towards the funeral ceremony.

Before the commencement of the service, Prince William had a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron.

This marks the first time William has stood in for the monarch at an international funeral.

President Trump reportedly met with Volodymyr Zelensky prior to the funeral and intends to have another conversation with the Ukrainian leader following the conclusion of the event.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista received applause when he recalled the Pope's compassionate efforts toward refugee assistance.

10:13 , Josh Butler

Cardinal Giovanni Battista, who leads the service, won praise from the gathered assembly of clerics, global dignitaries, and believers as he honored the deceased Pope’s efforts for the underprivileged, particularly highlighting his trip to the southern Italian island of Lampedusa.

The island serves as a well-known entry point for migrants attempting to reach Europe.

When Battista spoke about the Pope's visit in 2013, the crowd at St. Peter’s Square clapped enthusiastically.

Pope Francis threw a garland into the ocean during the visit to honor the migrants who perished while trying to reach Italy.

The cardinal characterized Pope Francis’s efforts for the poor as "ongoing" and highlighted his trip to Lampedusa as "important." He noted that the island stands as a symbol of "the crisis of migration," where countless individuals have perished in the waters.

He further mentioned: "Similarly notable were his visit to Lesbos alongside the Ecumenical Patriarch and the Archbishop of Athens, along with the Eucharist service held at the boundary separating Mexico from the United States during his tour of Mexico."

Cardinal Giovanni Battista gives a sermon commending the Pope's forward-thinking heritage

09:56 , Josh Butler

The Italian cardinal leading the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, is giving the sermon to the gathered assembly of clerics, global leaders, and believers.

The sermon acts as an analysis of Pope Francis’s life and his departure, honoring the influence he wielded over the Catholic Church and the enduring heritage he leaves behind.

The Cardinal spoke about the enormous display of emotion and fondness after the Pope's death.

He stated: "Even with his fragility and pain toward the end, Pope Francis opted for this route of self-sacrifice right up to his final day on Earth."

Giovanni also mentioned the forward-thinking perspectives of the former pope, noting that he was consistently "mindful of the currents of change."

Before the Pope's funeral service, Trump and Zelensky held a private discussion.

09:43 , Josh Butler

Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting before the funeral ceremony, sources have told Sky News.

It has been reported that they are taking advantage of the diplomatic openings presented by the Pope's funeral, where world leaders from all around the planet converge in St. Peter’s Square.

A further meeting is reportedly planned following the service, coming after President Trump said that Russia and Ukraine were “very close” to a peace deal.

The ceremony starts with Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re greeting the assembled crowd.

09:32 , Josh Butler

Giovanni Battista Re, as the dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the day’s ceremony.

He began by performing the Penitential Act, a way for the faithful to confess their sins.

The dean has proceeded to the Liturgy of the Word, which includes several Scripture readings such as passages from the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistle of Saint Paul to the Philippians.

Coffin carried to St Peter's Square as ceremony officially begins

09:19 , Josh Butler

Fourteen bearers carried the modest casket out from St Peter's Basilica into St Peter's Square as the service began.

The funeral Mass starts with the entrance antiphon, featuring a sequence of Psalm verses or scriptural readings that are customarily recited or chanted out loud.

As Volodymyr Zelensky arrives at St. Peter's Square, he receives warm applause.

09:13 , Josh Butler

As the Ukrainian Prime Minister entered the square before Pope Francis’s funeral, he received some cheers from the assembled crowd.

Zelensky joined Donald Trump in the plaza where the VIPs exchanged handshakes among themselves and with the gathered religious leaders prior to seating for the commencement of the ceremony.

Pictured: Keir Starmer and wife Victoria walk ahead of funeral mass as service is about to start

09:05 , Josh Butler

Shown: President Macron takes a moment inside St Peter's Basilica to honor the Pope's casket.

09:00 , Josh Butler

Shown: Priests, cardinals, and congregants taking their seats before the ceremony begins shortly.

08:57 , Josh Butler

Donald Trump along with his spouse Melania were seen at St. Peter's Basilica paying their respects to the Pope's casket.

08:54 , Josh Butler

Shown: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrives at the Vatican before the Pope's funeral.

08:49 , Josh Butler

Shown: The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, strides ahead of Pope Francis's funeral Mass.

08:46 , Josh Butler

How world leaders will be arranged for Pope Francis’s funeral?

08:34

The intricate seating arrangement for Pope Francis's funeral, expected to accommodate 170 global leaders, has been described by Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who leads the Catholic Church in England and Wales, as a "brilliant strategy" in handling the "large egos" present.

Official delegations will be positioned in a designated section to the right of the altar atop the steps leading to St. Peter's Basilica.

Priority in the seating arrangement will be given first to Francis’s homeland, Argentina, followed by Italy, highlighting his dual roles as the Bishop of Rome and the head of Italy’s Catholic bishops.

After these nations, royals like Prince William will be arranged "in alphabetical order, however in the French language," adhering to diplomatic custom.

On Friday, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni stated that there will be no differentiation between Catholic and non-Catholic monarchs when deciding the seating arrangement.

After royalty will come heads of state, and then heads of government including the UK prime minister and current US President Donald Trump - who may be disappointed to find himself not in the front row.

Generation Z Catholics honor Pope Francis as youth church attendance rises significantly.

08:33 , Josh Butler

Teenage 'Generation Z' Catholics have honored the memory of the late Pope Francis following a new study showing a significant rise in Catholic faith among young people.

The Quiet Revival survey, carried out by YouGov for the Bible Society, revealed that individuals aged 18 to 24 constitute the second biggest congregation of regular churchgoers in the UK, with their numbers increasing from 4% to 16% from 2018 to 2024.

These numbers have similarly risen amongst individuals aged 25 to 34, with their church attendance climbing from 4% to 13% over the same interval.

James Gallagher, a 25-year-old youth ministry intern from Aberdeen, Scotland, attributes the renewed appeal for younger individuals to the strong sense of community fostered by the church.

Mr. Gallagher, who graduated with a degree in economics, began his professional journey in financial services following college. However, he chose to seek out a more fulfilling path aligned closely with his beliefs.

He informed PA news: "I spent approximately one and a half years in the financial sector, followed by roughly six additional months doing various activities such as traveling, sailing, and working at another firm."

I found it enjoyable overall, yet this held greater significance for me.

Christian individuals venture out, aiming to convey that Christ has love for everyone they meet.

Mr. Gallagher was brought up as a Catholic, however, he mentioned that he started taking his faith seriously during his late adolescence and became engaged with the Catholic community at the University of Edinburgh.

"When I was 15 years old, I believed I was Christian and began to take matters more seriously," he stated.

"It wasn't till I went to university and got involved in the chaplaincy and met other young people my age that I really became alive."

During his studies, Mr. Gallagher offered to help with a homelessness initiative organized by nuns and thought about joining the priesthood.

He stated: "The sense of community within the Church inspires young individuals."

There are more people joining us, and there’s greater enthusiasm across every aspect.

Mr. Gallagher, who is presently employed at a Catholic Retreat Center in Keswick, Cumbria, mentioned that the transition with Pope Francis has once again brought Catholicism into the spotlight.

"Pope Francis was definitely going out to the margins, helping people and so on," he said.

"He was progressive as he tried to do things with refugees and to kind of shake up things a bit and get us out of our comfort zone."

He expressed his hope that the subsequent pope will emphasize missionary activities even more.

Alice Bryant, a 28-year-old elementary school teacher hailing from Harrogate in North Yorkshire, who grew up as a Catholic, mentioned that she has been increasingly engaging with her religion lately.

Ms. Bryant informed PA, "I more or less drifted away from the Church, which I believe happens quite often with many individuals."

"Then I came back just a couple of years ago, with a firm faith, whereas before growing up, it wasn't as firm.

I consistently attend Mass every Sunday. Additionally, if possible during school breaks, I may also go during weekdays.

Mrs. Bryant mentioned that many youngsters are embracing religion as they question their surroundings and determine the lifestyle they desire.

She stated: "We've seen an increase in young adults attending church services again."

I have made significant efforts to establish and join a community as I believe it holds great importance within one’s religious beliefs.

Even though Mrs. Bryant views the Pope's passing as a serious occasion, she mentioned that his demise occurring during Easter made it feel like a "wonderful time."

Shown: Ex-US President Joe Biden reaches Vatican City’s St. Peter's Square for the Pope's funeral.

08:19 , Sami Quadri

Zelensky heads to Rome for Pope Francis's funeral

07:23 , Sami Quadri

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky along with his spouse, Olena Zelenska, have reached Rome for attending the funeral of Pope Francis at the Vatican, as reported by Ukrainian news outlets quoting an official from the government.

Queries arose regarding the President's presence at the funeral after significant Russian airstrikes hit Kyiv earlier this week.

Shown: Massive crowds assemble in St. Peter's Square before the funeral.

06:58 , Sami Quadri

Where to view the Funeral of Pope Francis

06:19 , Sami Quadri

The BBC and Sky News will both offer special coverage of the Pope's funeral service.

The BBC News special will start at 8:30 am and is set to run through until 12:30 pm. In contrast, Sky News will kick off their coverage at 7 am and keep it going all the way till 1 pm.

ITV has stated that it will provide a continuous livestream on its digital platform ITVX for the entire day.

The Vatican plans to stream the funeral live on their YouTube channel as well. They've mentioned providing coverage in 15 distinct languages.

A silk fabric covers Pope Francis' face.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 10:28 PM , Megan Howe

Archbishop Diego Giovanni Ravalli was observed draping a silk cloth over Pope Francis' face prior to sealing the casket at St. Peter's Basilica on Friday.

This tradition dates back to 1969, starting with the burial of Pope Paul VI.

The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, might not attend Pope Francis' funeral, as various sources suggest.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 9:12 PM , Megan Howe

According to the BBC, President Zelensky might skip Pope Francis' funeral in Rome tomorrow due to crucial military engagements.

This follows Russia’s attack on Kyiv on Thursday, which reportedly resulted in 12 deaths and left approximately 90 individuals wounded.

The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia conducted a nighttime assault involving 215 drones and missiles, out of which 48 missiles and 64 drones were intercepted.

As reported by the BBC, Zelensky has stated that he might need to participate in "several meetings" due to the strike.

He informed the press, "Should I be delayed, Ukraine will still have representation at an appropriate level," adding that both the country’s foreign minister and first lady will attend in his stead.

In images: Emmanuel Macron honors Pope Francis

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 9:01 PM , Megan Howe

Cardinals close Pope Francis' coffin, concluding his period of public viewing.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 8:46 PM , Megan Howe

On Friday evening, Pope Francis' casket was closed during a private ceremony, concluding the three-day period where his remains were displayed at the Vatican.

The Vatican reported that approximately 250,000 people came forward to pay tribute to Pope Francis on the day before his funeral.

Leaders from around the world arrived in Rome on Friday to participate in a grand assembly at St. Peter’s Square for his funeral Mass.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who serves as the interim leader of the Church and is responsible for organizing funerals, conducted the ritual to seal the casket.

As stated by the Vatican press office, assistance was provided by additional church officials such as the Venezuelan archbishop, the Brazilian prelate, and the former Pope’s secretaries.

Global dignitaries come for Pope Francis' memorial service.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 8:40 PM , Megan Howe

US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer were among those due to arrive into Rome on Friday, and the Prince of Wales is also set to attend the mass on behalf of his father the King.

Irish President Michael D Higgins was among those to pay his respects in the basilica, having arrived earlier in the day.

The leader of Catholics in England and Wales, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, has predicted the funeral will be a "masterpiece" in stage-managing "big egos".

A representative from the Vatican has verified that although Francis was born in Argentina, Italy will be considered primary.

Following this, future monarchs will be positioned "in alphabetical sequence, however in the French language," succeeded by leaders of nations.

Ireland's representatives take priority over both Prince William and the British Government delegation in the formal protocol ranking due to being headed by their head of state, Mr. Higgins.

It lies between delegations from Indonesia and Iceland, with each group being headed by their respective country’s leaders.

Haakon, the Crown Prince of Norway, along with William, quickly follow suit in a special section designated for crown princes.

The UK government team comprises Sir Keir Starmer along with his spouse, Victoria, alongside Foreign Secretary David Lammy.

The doors were shut to the general public at St. Peter's Basilica following 170,000 people paying their respects.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 6:11 PM , Matt Watts

The gates have been shut for the general public at St Peter's Basilica.

This signifies the conclusion of three days during which Pope Francis's open casket lay in state.

The latest report from the Vatican indicates that more than 170,000 individuals worldwide have visited to honor the pope since Wednesday.

The funeral for Pope Francis is expected to serve as a 'sign of his modesty.'

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 5:45 PM , Sami Quadri

The leader of a Catholic relief organization stated that Pope Francis’s funeral will serve as "a symbol of his humility."

It is anticipated that thousands will assemble before Saturday's ceremony to pay their last respects to Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88.

Christine Allen, who leads the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), stated that the deceased pope created an immense legacy and committed his time as Pope to striving towards making the world a more improved place.

Addressing people at Cafod’s office in the city center London Mrs. Allen remarked, "I believe this specific funeral differs from other papal funerals."

What we're witnessing here represents Pope Francis’s humility... his affection, and his care for those who are the most impoverished among us.

In 2024, Francis implemented modifications to the papal funeral rituals with the intention of streamlining the proceedings.

Unlike his predecessors St John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI, whose bodies were displayed on an elevated bier, Francis’s remains were placed inside a modest coffin positioned just above the floor level within St Peter’s Basilica.

Francis additionally requested that his grave be "placed underground, with minimal decoration and carrying only this inscription: Franciscus."

Macron dismisses Ukraine negotiations during the Pope’s funeral in Rome

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 5:28 PM

Rumors of diplomatic discussions regarding Ukraine occurring concurrently with Pope Francis’s funeral were dispelled when French President Emmanuel Macron stated he would not host any such gatherings.

The Elysée Palace stated on Friday that the French president will not organize any diplomatic meetings surrounding the event scheduled for Saturday, even though there was talk suggesting that global leaders could potentially utilize this assembly as an opportunity for peace negotiations.

President Donald Trump of the US will have a short stay in Rome, remaining in the city for only 15 hours. His visit is scheduled to begin when he arrives late Friday evening and end right after he attends the funeral service.

Michelle O'Neill commends Pope Francis for his steadfast dedication to peace.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 4:59 PM , Sami Quadri

Michelle O'Neill, Northern Ireland's first minister, has commended Pope Francis's "consistent dedication to justice and peace" as she gets ready to attend his memorial service.

The deputy leader of Sinn Féin has ended their family vacation early to head to Rome for the weekend event, alongside prominent figures from various countries around the world.

“I feel honored to represent everyone back home at Pope Francis’s funeral on Saturday,” she stated. “Many held him dear for his guidance and respected him as both a spiritual and ethical leader.”

Ms. O'Neill stated, "Pope Francis will go down in history as a leader marked by profound humility, empathy, and bravery, steadfastly devoted to fairness and harmony. His departure is profoundly mourned both in Ireland and globally, having left behind a heritage that still motivates countless individuals."

Trump takes flight aboard Air Force One for the Pope's funeral in Rome

Friday 25 April 2025 16:24 , Sami Quadri

US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania have left Washington DC on Air Force One, heading to Rome for Pope Francis's funeral.

They add to an increasing number of global leaders heading to the Vatican for the upcoming ceremony, among them being ex-President Joe Biden along with his spouse Jill.

The UK's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Prince William will attend the event on behalf of Britain, alongside prominent participants such as Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Philippines’ President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The funeral will be 'a masterpiece of stage management,' asserts the British cardinal.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 2:22 PM , Sami Quadri

A British cardinal anticipates that Saturday’s funeral will serve as a “masterclass” in diplomatic orchestration as global leaders known for their “large egos” arrive in Rome.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who heads the Catholic Church in England and Wales, showed faith in the Vatican’s capability to manage the significant event involving prominent global figures.

The Archbishop of Westminster stated that the funeral will undoubtedly showcase "another exemplary display of stagecraft, particularly considering the presence of state leaders who hold themselves in very high regard."

"Previously, I have witnessed time and time again that when Rome and the Holy See team up, they truly excel at handling major events," he noted.

I believe this has been going on ever since the days when Roman emperors were in power—they seem adept at handling large egos. My impression is that each national leader who visits on Saturdays leaves feeling quite satisfied.

British theologian says 'No one can predict who the next Pope will be'

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 2:01 PM , Sami Quadri

A British theologian who served at the Vatican during Pope Francis’s tenure thinks that forecasting the choice of the subsequent Pope is entirely unpredictable.

Professor Anna Rowlands from Durham University, who was attached to the Vatican for two years, downplayed current speculations regarding the upcoming papal transition.

"Truly, nobody has an idea... I believe everything is uncertain," she stated.

This is partially due to the fact that the process is truly both secretive, taking place behind closed doors, and also because the composition of this College of Cardinals differs significantly from those who have previously elected a pope.

The theologian anticipates an erratic conclave that might result in an unexpected choice for leadership.

"I believe it'll be an unexpected assembly, completely unforeseeable right now, but it could lead to the emergence of a truly intriguing contender whom perhaps none of us are familiar with yet," she remarked.

Almost 130,000 people came to the Vatican to honor Pope Francis during his mourning period.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 1:58 PM , Sami Quadri

Nearly 130,000 mourners have filed past Pope Francis's body since it was brought to St Peter's Basilica on Wednesday, according to Vatican officials.

On Friday morning, lines extended halfway along the principal avenue connecting Rome with the Vatican City as individuals queued calmly to take their leave of the pope, according to Reuters.

The public viewings will conclude at 7 PM tonight, after which the Vatican will conduct an official ceremony to close the casket of the deceased pope before tomorrow's funeral.