Pope Francis’s funeral scheduled for April 26

The Vatican has announced the Pope's funeral will be on Saturday, April 26. It will take place at 10:00 local time (09:00 BST).

The ceremony is expected to attract global attention. World leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of faithful are expected to attend. The Holy See confirmed the date and time in a brief statement. More details about the funeral rites and attendees will be shared later.

Papal funerals are traditionally held in St. Peter’s Square. They include ancient rites and prayers. Pilgrims from around the world come to pay their respects.

Many people will gather in Rome to remember the Pope. He marked a transformative era for the Catholic Church. From Poland, President Andrzej Duda and First Lady Agata Kornhauser-Duda will attend.

President Duda declared Saturday a day of national mourning. This gesture highlights the late pontiff’s global influence and Poland's ties to the Church. His advisor Wojciech Kolarski shared this decision on X (formerly Twitter).

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will also attend. He aims to honour Pope Francis, who had strong connections with Latin America during his papacy.