Updated on: April 26, 2025 / 3:28 AM EDT / CBS News
The Vatican is preparing for the funeral service of Pope Francis, set to take place at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Watch the live ceremony here on CBS News and discover the unique traditions and arrangements chosen by Pope Francis for his funeral.
The funeral proceedings for Pope Francis will commence at 10 a.m. local time, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. The ceremony will adhere to the Vatican's papal funeral rites, with some modifications approved by Pope Francis last year.
The funeral service will include three key phases - preparation of the body, viewing of the body, and the burial ceremony, all following the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis liturgical book.
Various dignitaries, including President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, and former President Joe Biden, will be in attendance along with delegations from over 130 countries.
Following the funeral service, Pope Francis will be buried at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, a departure from past traditions within the Vatican.
Various ceremonies and rituals will unfold during the funeral, leading up to the Conclave to select the next pope. Stay tuned for live updates and exclusive coverage of the historic event.
Anna Matranga contributed to this report.
Haley Ott is the CBS News Digital international reporter, based in the CBS News London bureau.
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