Former President Trump announced on Monday his plans to attend the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome alongside First Lady Melania. The Pope passed away early Monday morning at the age of 88 due to a stroke and cardiac arrest. Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-mast in mourning and expressed condolences to Catholics worldwide.
During an Easter egg roll event at the White House, Trump praised the Pope as a kind-hearted individual who cared deeply for the world, especially those in need. When asked about attending the funeral, Trump mentioned holding a briefing after the event on the South Lawn to confirm his travel schedule.
This trip to Italy will mark Trump’s first foreign visit of his second term, with his initial international itinerary including a visit to Saudi Arabia in the second week of May. The funeral for Pope Francis is set to take place in Rome, followed by his burial under St. Peter’s Basilica. The date of the funeral has yet to be announced.
In the Pope’s will released by the Vatican on Monday, he specified his burial wishes, expressing a desire for his final resting place to be in the ancient basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. He requested a tomb within the basilica inscribed with his name, “Franciscus.”
Pope Francis extended gratitude and offered prayers for peace in his will, writing, “May the Lord grant all who have loved me and continue to pray for me the blessings they are due.” He dedicated his final moments of suffering in prayer for world peace and unity among nations.
The Pope’s family, his attending physician Dr. Andrew Arcangeli, and Vatican officials participated in a rosary service to announce his passing. Pope Francis had previously been hospitalized for 38 days due to double lung pneumonia before succumbing several weeks later.
On April 23, the Pope’s body will be escorted to St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican for public viewing. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, a high-ranking official in the Catholic Church, will oversee the funeral arrangements and ceremonies, with further details expected to be announced in the coming hours.