Pope: Cardinal Kevin Farrell to Lead Prayer Ahead of Pope Francis’ Transfer to Basilica

The Vatican has released details of the ceremonial proceedings taking place today, marking the public farewell to Pope Francis.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell will lead a solemn prayer this morning as the body of Pope Francis is moved from his residence at Casa Santa Marta to St Peter’s Basilica. The brief service will precede the formal procession through the Vatican grounds.

“Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, we now accompany the mortal remains of our Pope Francis to the Vatican Basilica,” Cardinal Farrell is expected to say. “As we leave his home, let us thank the Lord for the countless gifts He bestowed on the Christian people through His servant, Pope Francis. Let us pray that he may be granted eternal rest and that comfort may fill the hearts of the papal household, the Church in Rome, and faithful around the world.”

Public Entry Begins at St Peter’s Square

Crowds have begun entering St Peter’s Square ahead of the arrival of Pope Francis's coffin. The procession from Casa Santa Marta is scheduled to begin at 09:00 local time (08:00 BST), with thousands expected to line the route in silent tribute.

Public Viewing Schedule at St Peter’s Basilica

Following the ceremonial transfer, Pope Francis will lie in state at St Peter’s Basilica, allowing the public to pay their respects ahead of his funeral on Saturday.

The Basilica will be open to visitors during the following hours:

- Wednesday, April 23 – 11:00 to 24:00 (local time)

- Thursday, April 24 – 07:00 to 24:00

- Friday, April 25 – 07:00 to 19:00

Masses will continue as scheduled during the day.

What to Expect Today

Today’s key events are as follows:

Cardinal Kevin Farrell will open the service with a prayer at Casa Santa Marta.

At 09:00 local time, the coffin will be carried in a solemn procession through Piazza Santa Marta and Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani to St Peter’s Basilica.

The Liturgy of the Word, featuring scripture readings, will follow.

The Pope’s coffin will then remain in the Basilica, lying in state until his funeral.

Crowds Gather to Bid Farewell

From the early hours, mourners have gathered outside the Vatican, queuing quietly for a final glimpse of the beloved pontiff. Swiss Guards have stood watch as priests and dignitaries arrived.

Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88 following a stroke. His final moments were described by those present as “discreet” and “peaceful.”

In a break from tradition, Pope Francis will be buried at St Mary Major Basilica, making him the first pope since Leo XIII in 1903 to be interred outside Vatican grounds.

World leaders, including Donald Trump, Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Prince William—representing King Charles—are expected to attend Saturday’s funeral.