Pope Francis II has passed away, prompting the Vatican to initiate funeral procedures. Given that Pope Francis had continually emphasized a 'simple funeral' during his lifetime, it is likely that his funeral procedures will be simpler in terms of processes and forms compared to those of past popes.
First, those chosen by lot among the cardinals will gather to hold a meeting to decide the length of the mourning period. Usually, it is typical to set a mourning period of 4 to 6 days. If this period is maintained, it is likely that Pope Francis's funeral will be conducted over a span of around 7 days.
During the mourning period, the body of the pope will be displayed to the public at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Mourning guests will be able to see the body of the pope and pay their respects. In the case of Pope Benedict XVI, who passed away in 2023, his body was placed in St. Peter's Basilica two days after his death, and public mourning began.
After the public mourning ends, the burial ceremony will begin. A scroll detailing the pope's achievements will be placed inside the cedar coffin in which the pope's body lies. Once the burial procedure is completed, the pope's remains, preceded by a cross, will be carried to the altar in front of the Lee & Ko square, followed by the gathered cardinals from around the world.
However, it is anticipated that Pope Francis's funeral procedures will be further scaled down. Last November, Pope Francis signed a 'Funeral Rite for the Pope' that focused on simplifying funeral procedures. The contents include provisions to limit the coffin to one wooden coffin instead of using three, and to keep the funeral procedures closely aligned with those of ordinary believers.