The Vatican’s solemn nine-day mourning period for the late Pope Francis has officially concluded, marking the end of a period of prayer and reflection that began on April 26—the day of his burial. The farewell rites culminated with a Holy Mass led by Cardinal Dominic Mamberti, protodeacon of the 2025 papal conclave, who honored the Pope’s life and legacy during the closing liturgy.

Cardinal Mamberti reflected on Pope Francis’s unwavering dedication to his pastoral mission, noting how his deep faith and love for Christ shaped his every word and action. “Pope Francis reminded the world to follow God over men,” he said, “proclaiming Christ as Merciful Redeemer and heralding the Gospel with joy—both in his teachings and through the example of his daily life.” He also recalled the Pope’s final Easter message from the Vatican’s loggia, where he spoke with clarity and courage, prioritizing the spiritual welfare of the faithful until his final days.

With the period of mourning concluded, the Church now turns toward the next chapter. Today and tomorrow serve as preparatory days for the conclave, which will bring together cardinals from around the world to choose the next Bishop of Rome. These gatherings are more than ceremonial; they are vital moments of conversation, discernment, and mutual understanding.

General assemblies are underway, offering the cardinals a forum to discuss pressing issues facing the Church and to evaluate the qualities needed in the next pontiff. These deliberations are expected to influence the mood and momentum of the conclave, which begins shortly. All eyes now turn to the Sistine Chapel, where the future of the papacy will soon be decided behind closed doors.