Cardinal Meeting To Plan Pope Francis' Funeral And Upcoming Conclave

On Tuesday, cardinals will convene in the Vatican to discuss the funeral arrangements for Pope Francis, who unexpectedly passed away at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest. The funeral will be a significant event attended by world leaders, marking the beginning of the transition towards electing a new pope in an upcoming conclave.

Pope Francis’ death ends an often turbulent papacy that witnessed tensions with traditionalists, as well as his tireless advocacy for the poor and marginalized. Earlier this year, the pontiff spent several weeks in the hospital battling double pneumonia but had shown signs of recovery, even making a public appearance in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.

Funeral Preparations Begin
Following the pope’s sudden death, long-standing Vatican rituals were immediately set in motion. Among these is the ceremonial breaking of the “Fisherman’s Ring” and lead seal to ensure they cannot be used by anyone else. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, who led prayers in St. Peter’s Square on Monday evening, expressed gratitude for Pope Francis’ leadership, calling him “a pilgrim of hope” and recognizing his contributions to the Church.

At 9 a.m. (0700 GMT) on Tuesday, all cardinals in Rome are scheduled to meet at the Vatican to finalize plans for the funeral, which is expected to take place sometime between Friday and Sunday. The service will be attended by notable world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, who, despite his differences with the pope on immigration, confirmed his attendance along with his wife. Argentine President Javier Milei, a fellow native of Pope Francis, will also be present.

Pope’s Final Wishes and Upcoming Conclave
In an unusual departure from tradition, Pope Francis specified in his final testament that he wished to be buried in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major, rather than St. Peter’s Basilica, reflecting his personal wishes for his final resting place.

Meanwhile, the Vatican has begun preparing for the highly secretive conclave that will elect the next pope. The gathering of cardinals will also include discussions about the daily operations of the Church before a new pope is chosen. Typically, a conclave takes place within 15 to 20 days of the pope’s death, which means the process is expected to begin no earlier than May 6.

Currently, there is no clear frontrunner to succeed Pope Francis, but with at least 135 cardinals eligible to vote, the election will be watched closely by millions around the world.

Learn more about the life and legacy of Pope Francis on LMSINT Media.