Pope Francis, remembered globally for his humility, compassion, and tireless efforts to unite people across faiths and cultures, will be laid to rest on Saturday, the Vatican has confirmed.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who led the Catholic Church with a distinctly populist approach, brought renewed focus to issues of social justice and inclusion, earning admiration from both believers and non-believers around the world.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the globe and within the United States, where Pope Francis made a historic visit in 2015 that left a lasting impression on many.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, he became the Catholic Church’s 266th pope in 2013 and the first from Latin America. He chose the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, a saint known for his service to the poor and his call for humility.
The pope’s remains have been moved from his residence to St. Peter’s Basilica, where he will lie in repose for three days. Crowds of mourners have gathered to pay their final respects as his open casket rests in the basilica.
The funeral is scheduled for Saturday morning in St. Peter’s Square. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are expected to attend, joining dignitaries and faithful from around the world in bidding farewell to one of the most influential and widely respected pontiffs of the modern era.