Pope Francis is the head of the Roman Catholic Church. He became pope in 2013. He is known for helping the poor, calling for peace, and caring for the environment. When he passes away, the world will come together to remember him. The memorial service will be both holy and respectful.
The Vatican, which is the HQ of the Catholic Church, will plan the event. The Pope lives in Vatican City, a small country inside Rome, Italy. When a pope dies, there is a special service called a funeral Mass. It takes place in St. Peter’s Basilica, the biggest church in the world.
The service will follow rules from the RCC (Roman Catholic Church). Priests, bishops, cardinals, and the new pope (if chosen) will be there. The service will also have guests from the UN (United Nations), EU (European Union), and govts (governments) from many countries.
Pope Francis has done a lot for the poor. He spoke out for human rights and the rights of refugees. In 2015, he wrote a letter called Laudato Si’, which warned about climate change. He said that we must care for the Earth, our “common home.”
The service may include prayers in many languages. Leaders from other religions like Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism may also come. They will show respect for his work on interfaith peace.
The RC (Roman Curia), the group that helps run the church, will manage the schedule. TV stations like CNN, BBC, and EWTN will air the event. The WHO (World Health Organization) may also send someone, since Pope Francis talked about global health during COVID-19.
It is likely that thousands will come to Vatican City. People from Africa, Asia, North America, and SA (South America) will attend. Some may camp outside just to get a place to watch the service.
The service will be long. It may last three hours or more. There will be hymns, readings from the Bible, and a homily (a short talk about the Pope’s life). His coffin may be made from simple wood, as he wished.
Pope Francis’s body may be buried under St. Peter’s Basilica. That is where many other popes are laid to rest. His name will be written in Latin, and a marble stone will mark his grave.
Even after he is gone, Pope Francis’s words and actions will still teach people about love, peace, and care. His memorial service will remind us all to do good in the world—even if we make a few misakes along the way.