Cardinals to convene in Rome to plan Pope Francis’ funeral

Cardinals from around the world are set to meet Tuesday at the Vatican to plan the funeral of Pope Francis, who died unexpectedly on Monday at the age of 88.

His passing initiates a period of mourning and transition for the 1.4-billion-member Roman Catholic Church.

According to the Vatican, Francis died of a stroke and cardiac arrest.

He had recently recovered from a bout of double pneumonia and had appeared in good health during his Easter Sunday address in St. Peter’s Square.

In line with tradition, preparations for the funeral and conclave began immediately.

Among the first acts was the ceremonial destruction of the pope’s “Fisherman’s Ring” and lead seal to prevent misuse.

Cardinal Mauro Gambetti led prayers in the square on Monday evening, calling Francis a “pilgrim of hope.”

All cardinals currently in Rome were summoned to gather at 9 a.m. Tuesday to finalize funeral plans and discuss Church governance until a new pope is elected.

The funeral is expected to take place between Friday and Sunday. In a break from custom, Pope Francis requested to be buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, rather than St. Peter’s Basilica.

Heads of state, including US President Donald Trump and Argentina’s President Javier Milei, are expected to attend.

A conclave to elect Francis’ successor is likely to begin around May 6. Of the 135 cardinals eligible to vote, nearly 80% were appointed by Francis, potentially shaping the Church’s future trajectory.

Francis is remembered for his progressive stance, efforts to reform the Vatican, and advocacy for the poor and marginalized.

His death marks the end of a transformative yet often contentious papacy.