This Saturday, St. Peter’s Square will host the funeral of Pope Francis—an event of historical magnitude that will bring together religious leaders, heads of state, and representatives of Catholic royal houses. The Argentine pontiff, who died at the age of 88, will be laid to rest with full honors in a solemn ceremony marking the close of a singular era in the Church’s history.
Tensions between progressive and conservative sectors within the Catholic Church became increasingly evident during the pontificate of Pope Francis, whose leadership often emphasized themes such as social justice, climate change, and pastoral inclusion. While his approach was hailed by many as a necessary aggiornamento for a Church facing modern challenges, others—particularly within more traditional circles—viewed his legacy with skepticism.
Concerns emerged over perceived ambiguities in moral teachings, the decentralization of doctrinal authority, and initiatives that some felt blurred the line between pastoral care and doctrinal compromise.Presided over by the Camerlengo, the service will be attended by thousands of faithful and more than 180 international delegations. On the right side of the square, the Church hierarchy—cardinals, archbishops, and bishops from all continents—will take their places. On the opposite side, representatives of governments and royal families will be seated, according to the strict Vatican diplomatic protocol.
Italy, as host nation, will be represented by President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Next to them will be the sizable Argentine delegation, led by President Javier Milei, who, despite his strained relationship with the late pope, has chosen to attend in person to bid farewell to his fellow countryman.
Among the most notable attendees will be King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, along with the monarchs of Belgium, Luxembourg, and Monaco. Queen Sofía of Spain, known for her deep spiritual connection to the Vatican, is also expected to attend. The presence of these royal households symbolizes the enduring historical bond between European monarchies and the Catholic Church.
Trump and von der Leyen: A potentially significant encounter
One of the key political highlights of the day will be the confirmed attendance of U.S. President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, which will mark the first time both leaders appear in the same place since Trump returned to the White House in January. Tensions between Washington and Brussels have been escalating in recent months, particularly on issues related to trade, climate policy, and international security.
Some diplomatic sources suggest the possibility of a brief bilateral meeting between Trump and von der Leyen on the sidelines of the ceremony, though for now these remain unconfirmed rumors. Expectations are high, as any gesture—whether conciliatory or dismissive—could significantly impact the already fragile geopolitical balance between the United States and the European Union.
Once the funeral concludes, the Vatican’s attention will shift toward the upcoming conclave. The cardinal electors have already arrived in Rome, and in the coming days, general congregations will begin ahead of the election of the next pope. Until then, the Eternal City once again becomes the spiritual and political center of the world.
