Pope Francis’ unexpected death sparks global mourning and urgent funeral plans ahead of conclave

The death of Pope Francis on Monday has sent shockwaves through the Catholic Church and the world. The 88-year-old pontiff, who had championed the poor and often clashed with traditionalists, died unexpectedly after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest. His sudden passing has sparked a rush of ceremonial and administrative activity in the Vatican, as cardinals gather to make funeral arrangements and prepare for the election of his successor.

Despite spending five weeks in hospital earlier this year for double pneumonia, Pope Francis had appeared to be recovering. Just a month ago, he made an appearance in St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday. His death, however, has accelerated the process of transition for the Church, and a conclave to elect a new pope is now looming.

On Tuesday morning, all cardinals in Rome were called to gather at the Vatican to plan the funeral. Leaders from across the globe, including US President Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei, are expected to attend, marking the first steps in a worldwide farewell to the pontiff.

The funeral ceremony is likely to take place sometime between Friday and Sunday. In an unusual departure from tradition, Pope Francis had stated in his final testament that he wished to be buried in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major, not St. Peter’s Basilica as is customary for popes.

The ceremonial procedures have already begun, with the breaking of the pope’s “Fisherman’s Ring” and lead seal, ensuring they cannot be used again. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti led a prayer in St Peter’s Square on Monday evening, thanking the Lord for the gifts Pope Francis had given to the Church, calling him a “pilgrim of hope.”

With the funeral plans underway, the cardinals will also meet to discuss the interim management of the Church and prepare for the conclave, which is expected to begin between May 6 and May 20. There is currently no clear frontrunner for the papacy, though many eyes will be on the 135 eligible cardinals who will take part in the secretive election process.

Pope Francis’ tenure was marked by efforts to reform the Church, address the scourge of child abuse within its ranks, and make significant strides against corruption in the Vatican’s central administration. However, he was often at odds with conservative factions who saw his progressive stance, particularly on issues like LGBTQ rights, as a break from tradition.

His legacy will be a complex one, with some praising his forward-thinking approach while others remain critical of his liberal policies. Notably, he appointed nearly 80% of the cardinals eligible to vote in the conclave, shaping the future of the Church in a way that may influence the direction his successor takes.

In the coming days, as cardinals from around the world gather for meetings known as General Congregations, the profile of the next pope will begin to take shape. These preliminary discussions are crucial in the lead-up to the conclave, where secrecy and tradition will dictate the process.

The faithful will also be able to pay their respects to Pope Francis. His body is expected to be moved to St Peter’s Basilica by Wednesday morning, where thousands are likely to file past to say their final goodbyes. At the Santa Marta residence, where the pope has chosen to live since 2013, Vatican staff and officials have already begun to pay their respects.

As the Church navigates this moment of transition, all eyes will be on the conclave to see who will take up the mantle of leadership, following one of the most influential popes in recent history.