Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Catholic Church, passed away at age 88. His death was announced by the Vatican on Easter Monday. Now, touching details about his burial have been shared.

Inside Pope Francis’s coffin is a heartfelt note calling him a “simple and much-loved shepherd.” It tells the story of his life as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, where he lived simply, traveled by public transport, cooked for himself, and stayed close to the people he served. The note says he “will remain in the heart of the Church and of humanity” and praises his life as a saint and a father figure to all.

Francis’s funeral is being attended by many world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, Prince William, and Sir Keir Starmer. About 500,000 mourners are expected at the open-air service in St. Peter’s Square, with many people camping overnight to say goodbye.

His body had been lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica in a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc. Before today’s funeral, the coffin was sealed. Unlike earlier popes, who were buried in three coffins, Francis will be buried in just one. The zinc lid has his name, a cross, his papal coat of arms, and the years of his papacy (2013–2025).

This morning, St. Peter’s Square was packed with world leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of mourners. People flooded the streets from early in the morning, singing hymns, praying, and remembering Pope Francis’s kindness.

Clergy members, dressed in simple robes and white mitres, gathered for the funeral ceremony. The funeral procession included bishops and priests walking alongside the coffin, while Pope Francis wore a red chasuble and a golden mitre.

The funeral started at 10 a.m. local time, with Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re leading the service. Pope Francis’s coffin was placed before St. Peter’s Basilica, marking a powerful farewell to one of the Church’s most beloved leaders.