Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was a historic leader. Not just because he led the Vatican for over a decade, or even because he was the first ever Latin American pontiff. Above all else, his legacy is one of reforming the faith by speaking out on a range of issues, reaching out to LGBT people, and increasing opportunities for women in Catholic churches.
The Pope died just after 7.30am on Easter Monday (April 21) of a stroke after several months of ill-health following two bouts of pneumonia this February. The Vatican said of him on Monday" ‘He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized.’
Francis has made it clear that he wants to remain in death as he did in life: with humility. Popes are traditionally laid to rest underneath St Peter’s Basilica, but Francis will be buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, where he often went to pray to a statue of the Mother Mary, with a simple inscription of his papal name in Latin.
Catholics across the world have been mourning the late Pope Francis in local chapels and national cathedrals this week, but timings and information is now available about when his official papal funeral will be. Here’s what you need to know if you want to watch along and pay your respects from home.
When is the Pope's funeral?
The papal funeral must happen within six days of the Pope’s death, hence why Pope Francis’ will take place this Saturday (April 26). A mass will take place in front of St Peter’s Basilica before the coffin is brought into the church, presented to the first pope, and then finally taken to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Francis’ final resting place.
What time does the funeral start?
The funeral will begin at 9am BST, which is 10am local time. It will continue until around 12pm BST, although exact timings may vary.
What TV channels will it be on?
You have a few options for watching the funeral this Saturday. BBC One will be showing the funeral from 8.30am until 12.30pm on TV, and Sky News will also be broadcasting live commentary from 7am.
How to stream the Pope’s funeral
If, for whatever reason, you’re unable to access a telly, the Vatican will also be livestreaming the funeral from its YouTube channel, which you can find here. You’ll be able to watch on iPlayer, too.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out UK newsletter for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.