Kings, heads of state, prime ministers, and large crowds of faithful believers are gathering today, Saturday, for a solemn funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican to honor Pope Francis, who passed away last Monday at the age of 88 following a stroke.

The Mass marks the beginning of a carefully planned transitional period for the Roman Catholic Church, which counts approximately 1.4 billion members worldwide. The ceremony blends ancient traditions with official mourning rites.

Representatives from more than 150 countries are attending the service, including U.S. President Donald Trump, whose relationship with Pope Francis was often marked by sharp disagreements, particularly over immigration issues, with the two leaders exchanging public criticisms in recent years.

Strict security measures have been implemented across St. Peter’s Square to accommodate the influx of world leaders and dignitaries attending the funeral, which is expected to be one of the most significant religious and political events of the year.