The world community is preparing to say goodbye to the Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at his residence in the Vatican. As it became known, the President of the United States of America Donald Trump, together with his wife Melania, intends to personally come to Rome to participate in the burial ceremony of the Pontiff. Trump reported this in his publication on the social network Truth Social.
Although the exact schedule of farewells has not yet been made public, traditionally the funeral of the Pope should take place within four to six days after his death. The farewell ceremony will take place in the Vatican with the participation of world leaders, clergy, diplomats and pilgrims from all over the world.
In his statement, Donald Trump noted that it is important for him and his wife to attend a ceremony that honors the memory of a spiritual leader whose figure had a great influence on both the Catholic Church and a global moral discourse. Before that, Trump also expressed his condolences about the death of Pope Francis, emphasizing his sense as a shepherd and a peacemaker.
Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and the first Pope from Latin America, has embraced a pontiff since 2013. His service was open to reforms, efforts to modernize the Catholic Church, the desire for social justice and an active inter -religious dialogue. He has repeatedly spoken of global challenges, including war, poverty, climate change and migration crisis.
Pope Francis' health has been anxious in recent years. In February, he was hospitalized at the Roman Hospital Dzhemelli with a diagnosis of respiratory tract infection. Later, bilateral pneumonia and renal failure were detected. Despite the temporary improvement of the condition, on April 21, he had a stroke that caused anyone and an irreversible cardiovascular collapse. The medical cause of the death was confirmed by the Director of the Vatican Health and Hygiene Department Professor Andrea Arkandelai.
Trump's involvement in the funeral of Pope Francis is expected not only to be symbolic but also political significance. The visit of the White House Head to the Pontiff burial ceremony is a sign of respect for the Vatican and confirming the role of the Holy See as an influential player in the international arena.
According to the diplomatic protocol, other leaders of the states, including the President of Italy, German Chancellor, Canada Prime Minister, European Union representatives and the UN Secretary General may also be present at the funeral. Traditionally, the ceremony will include a singing, prayer in St. Peter's Basilica and burial in the tomb under the cathedral.
The Holy See is currently completing the preparation for farewells and is preparing for the Sede Vacante - vacant throne period - which will continue to be elected a new Pope on the Cardinal Conclava.
