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the transfer of Pope Francis’ coffin to St. Peter’s Basilica began at 9 a.m. local time today, April 23, following a prayer ceremony in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta.
The doors of St. Peter’s Basilica opened at 11 a.m. local time (5 a.m. ET) for the public,allowing more than 20,000 faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pay their final respects to Pope Francis on Wednesday.
The late pontiff’s coffin rests before the altar on a modest wooden platform, placed almost at ground level.
Pilgrims are pausing to pray for a few moments before moving on, in a solemn procession that will continue until the pope’s burial at St. Mary Major Basilica following Saturday’s funeral Mass, which will be celebrated by Vatican Secretary of state Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
The body of Pope Francis is now in St.Peter’s Basilica. The solemn transfer of the coffin from Casa Santa Marta took place in St. Peter’s Square. pic.twitter.com/efIxBfl3Wf
— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) April 23, 2025
The Vatican “sediari” — the same bearers who in past centuries carried the portable papal throne — transported the coffin on their shoulders to St. peter’s Square, accompanied by cardinals currently present in Rome.
From casa santa Marta to the Vatican Basilica, the procession was marked by visible emotion among onlookers. Some could not hold back tears as they followed in respectful silence the final journey of the “pope of the peripheries.”
On Friday at 8 p.m. local time, cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, in his role as camerlengo of Holy Roman Church, will preside over the rite of closing of the coffin of the Roman Pontiff Francis.
The World Mourns: Pope Francis’ Final Journey and What Comes Next
Table of Contents
The world watched with heavy hearts as the body of Pope Francis was solemnly transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on April 23, 2025 [[1]]. But beyond the immediate mourning, what does the future hold for the Catholic Church and its 1.3 billion followers? The passing of a Pope is more than a moment of grief; it’s a pivotal point that sets in motion a series of events with far-reaching consequences.
The “Sediari” and a Tradition Steeped in History
The “sediari,” the Vatican bearers who once carried the papal throne, played a central role in the transfer [[1]]. This act alone speaks volumes about the weight of tradition within the Catholic Church.But how will this tradition adapt to the modern world as the Church navigates complex issues like declining membership in the West and evolving social norms?
The Procession: A Sea of Emotion
the World Mourns Pope Francis: A Q&A on the Papacy’s Future
Keywords: Pope Francis, Vatican, Funeral, Catholic Church, Papal Transition, Conclave, Theology, Church Leadership
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Evelyn Reed. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the passing of Pope Francis and what lies ahead for the Catholic Church. The images coming from the vatican are incredibly powerful,especially the transfer of his body to St. Peter’s Basilica which commenced on April 23rd, 2025.
dr. Evelyn Reed (ER): It’s my pleasure. These are moments of profound importance, not just for Catholics but for the world. The transfer, or “translatio,” is steeped in history, providing a visual connection to centuries of papal tradition.
TNE: Speaking of tradition, the article mentions the “sediari,” the Vatican bearers, carrying the coffin. What’s the significance of their involvement in this modern context?
ER: The “sediari” represent an unbroken link to the past. Thay once carried the portable papal throne,a symbol of papal authority. Their continued role in the solemn transfer acknowledges the enduring history of the papacy,even as the Church grapples with contemporary challenges. Pope Francis, known for his humility, likely appreciated the continuity of this tradition even when its original practical purpose is gone.
TNE: The article notes that over 20,000 faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pay their respects. It seems like a huge expression of support, but also great sadness.
ER: Absolutely. The article highlights a sea of emotion, the visible grief of those present. Pope Francis had a profound impact on peopel’s lives, often referred to as the “pope of the peripheries” for his focus on the marginalized. These expressions of grief show his message resonated deeply with people worldwide. However, we also need to acknowledge the church faces challenges, particularly declining membership in Western countries, coexisting with vibrant Catholic communities in other parts of the globe.
TNE: The article also mentioned that Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell will preside over the rite of closing the coffin. What is involved in this rite, and why is it important?
ER: It begins the formal steps in the post-papacy period. The camerlengo confirms the Pope’s death, traditionally with a symbolic gesture. It involves authenticating the Pope’s death as well and preparing the death certificate; it also involves sealing the papal apartments. It’s both a practical and a symbolic act, officially marking the end of his papacy and initiating the process of selecting his successor.
TNE: Dr. Reed, looking beyond the immediate mourning, what are the most important questions the Catholic Church is facing right now?
ER: Several critical issues are at the forefront. Firstly, the selection of the new Pope. A conclave of cardinals will be convened,and they will deliberate and vote until a new leader emerges.This process is governed by strict rules and procedures. Secondly, the Church needs to address ongoing challenges related to the clergy abuse crisis and institute meaningful reforms. the interplay between faith and contemporary issues,such as climate change,social justice,and LGBTQ+ inclusion,will be crucial for the future relevance of the Church.
TNE: The selection of a new Pope is obviously a watershed event. What can we expect to see in the coming weeks, and what factors will be weighing heavily on the cardinals making this decision?
ER: The cardinals will be looking for someone who embodies the qualities needed to lead the Church forward. They will be considering candidates with strength of character, administrative acumen, theological expertise, and an understanding of the challenges facing the global community. you’ll see a period of intense prayer, reflection, and strategic discussion among the cardinals as they seek divine guidance in this critically important decision. The needs of the Church and the world will be front and center. The future direction of the Catholic Church depends on the outcome of the conclave.
TNE: Dr. Reed, this has been incredibly insightful. Any last thoughts for our readers?
ER: This is a time to observe, to reflect, and to understand the significance of this moment in the history of the Catholic Church. The Church is an institution that is bigger than can be imagined to those outside, but can feel like an intimate community to those within. The coming weeks will be of particular importance, and I urge our readers to engage with thoughtful journalism and analysis as these events unfold. Thank you for having me.