Following the passing of Pope Francis at 88, a period of national mourning is anticipated across Italy, alongside a nine-day tribute to honour his life and legacy. The pontiff’s funeral, scheduled to take place within four to six days following an extended period where his remains will lie in state at St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, is now the subject of significant planning.
“Officials are currently assessing Pope Francis’s final arrangements and determining who will be invited – most likely Prince William – to attend the service,” noted Rebecca English of The Mail. “Historical precedent suggests a prominent member of the British Royal Family, such as the late Prince Charles, would represent the monarchy at this solemn occasion.”
This expectation aligns with past practices; Prince Charles attended the funeral of Pope John Paul II in 2005, serving as a representative of Queen Elizabeth II. The Prince of Wales recently undertook a diplomatic mission to Paris, reopening Notre Dame Cathedral and meeting with President Donald Trump – demonstrating his continued role as a senior royal figure.
Earlier today, King Charles issued a deeply personal statement expressing profound sadness at the news of Pope Francis’s death: “My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.”
The King continued, “His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his dedication to unity within the Church, and his unwavering commitment to promoting the wellbeing of all faiths and those who strive for a better future. His belief in safeguarding Creation as an integral expression of faith resonated globally. Through his efforts concerning people and planet, he touched countless lives.
“We remember with particular affection our meetings with His Holiness over the years, and we were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month,”
the King stated. “We send our most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Church he served with such resolve, and to the people around the world who will be mourning this faithful follower of Jesus Christ.”
Following the funeral service, a conclave will convene approximately two to three weeks later within the Sistine Chapel. The College of Cardinals will engage in a rigorous process of secret voting – four times daily – until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority. The traditional signal of a new pontiff’s election is the release of white smoke from the chimney, marking a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church.
