Following Pope Francis’s passing, cardinals convened on Tuesday to plan his funeral.

Following Pope Francis’s passing, cardinals convened on Tuesday to plan his funeral, which will be attended by global leaders, preceding a conclave next month to elect a new pontiff. Francis, 88, unexpectedly died on Monday due to a stroke and cardiac arrest, according to the Vatican, concluding a tumultuous reign marked by clashes with traditionalists and advocacy for the poor and marginalized. Despite a five-week hospital stay earlier this year for double pneumonia, Francis had appeared to be recovering, even making an appearance in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday. His sudden death initiated ancient rituals, as the 1.4-billion-member Church began the transition between popes, including the destruction of the pope’s “Fisherman’s Ring” and lead seal to prevent their misuse. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, who led prayers in St. Peter’s Square on Monday evening, expressed gratitude for Francis’s apostolic ministry. Cardinals in Rome were summoned to the Vatican at 9 am to discuss funeral arrangements. US President Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei, among other world leaders, are expected to attend. The Vatican anticipates the funeral to be held between Friday and Sunday. Contrary to tradition, Francis’s final testament requested burial in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major, not St. Peter’s Basilica. The cardinals will also address the Church’s administration during the interregnum. A conclave to elect a new pope is typically held 15 to 20 days after a pope’s death, suggesting it will begin around May 6. Approximately 135 cardinals are eligible to participate in the secretive election, which may span several days. Currently, there is no clear successor to Francis. Francis inherited a troubled Church and worked to reform the Vatican’s bureaucracy, combat corruption, and address child abuse within the clergy. He frequently clashed with conservative factions, who viewed him as overly liberal. Francis appointed nearly 80% of the cardinal electors, potentially influencing the direction of his successor’s policies. Cardinals will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves at pre-conclave meetings known as General Congregations, where they will discuss the qualities needed in the next pope. The Vatican announced that Holy See staff and officials may pay their respects at the Santa Marta residence, where Francis resided since 2013, avoiding the papal palace. His body may be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing as early as Wednesday morning.