Pope Francis’ funeral mass will be held today in St. Peter’s Square, in accordance with church tradition that calls for the ceremony to take place within four to six days of a pope’s death.
While papal funerals are usually elaborate, Pope Francis chose last year to simplify his own service, reflecting his lifelong commitment to humility and modesty.
Breaking with tradition, he will become the first pope in over a century not to be buried in the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Instead, his final resting place will be the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, near his favorite painting of the Madonna.
The funeral will be attended by numerous world leaders and dignitaries who have gathered to pay their respects to the beloved pontiff.
