Pope Francis to be laid to rest as global elite gathers for final journey

A historic moment is taking place in Vatican City as approximately 1.4 billion Catholics prepare to say farewell to Pope Francis, who died in office, marking the first papal funeral in over a decade. The funeral ceremony will commence at 10 am, with the pontiff’s body displayed for homage at St. Peter’s Basilica before a procession through Rome, culminating in his burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. This farewell reflects Francis’ legacy, including his acceptance of LGBTQ+ couples, and is expected to draw large crowds eager to pay their respects.