Pope Francis was brought in solemn procession to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday morning, where the late pontiff will lie in state for three days for mourners to pay their final respects and say goodbye.
The Rite of Translation began in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, where Francis lived for the 12 years of his pontificate, and ended with the Holy Father’s body before the Altar of Confession in the soaring basilica at the center of Christendom.
Cardinals pray before Pope Francis’ body in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Vatican MediaPope Francis’ body is blessed in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Vatican MediaPope Francis’ body processes toward St. Peter’s Basilica, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Vatican MediaCardinals, bishops, and Vatican officials walk alongside Pope Francis’ coffin in St. Peter’s Square on April 23, 2025, during the solemn transfer as Swiss Guards stand in formal formation. Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNAPope Francis’ body is brought into St. Peter’s Basilica, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNAPope Francis’ body is processed into St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Vatican MediaClergy are seen processing during the Rite of Translation for Pope Francis’ body in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA
(Story continues below)
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
Pope Francis’ body is seen during the Rite of Translation at St. Peter’s Square, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNAPope Francis’ body lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Vatican MediaThe Holy Father’s body lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Vatican Media
The Catholic News Agency (CNA) Staff is a team of journalists dedicated to reporting news concerning the Catholic Church around the world. Our bureaus are located in Washington, D.C., and Rome. We have sister language agencies in Kenya, Germany, Peru, Brazil, and Italy. CNA is a service of EWTN News. You can contact us at news@catholicna.com with questions.
