News about funeral • Pope Francis

The pope chose to be buried at the smaller basilica, which is about four miles away, outside the Vatican walls. He prayed at St. Mary's often, before and after international trips during his 12-year pontificate.

What to know about the death of Pope Francis and what comes next. Pope Francis died Monday, April 21, at the age of 88, almost a month after being released from a Rome hospital where he was treated for a respiratory infection that turned into pneumonia. The Vatican said he died of a cerebral stroke and heart failure.

The Vatican has since announced arrangements for the Pope's funeral, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 26.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the 91-year-old Italian who is currently dean of the College of Cardinals, is expected to preside over the pope's funeral mass. He will lead those present in prayers and Bible readings, and will deliver the final commendation and valediction, entrusting the pope's soul to God.