The Vatican will commemorate this April 21 the first anniversary of the death of Pope Francis with a series of liturgical acts in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, where his remains rest since his passing in 2025.
The pontiff died at 7:35 in the morning in the Casa Santa Marta, one day after having imparted the blessing urbi et orbi. His funeral was held five days later, and since then he rests, according to his will, in this Marian basilica of Rome.
Rosary and Mass in Saint Mary Major
According to Vatican News, the commemorative acts will begin at 17:00 with the recitation of the Rosary in the Pauline Chapel, a place especially linked to Francis, who went on numerous occasions to pray before the image of the Salus Populi Romani.
Next, a commemorative plaque will be unveiled that recalls this bond. The inscription, in Latin and made of bronze, refers to the 126 visits of the Pope to this Marian icon and states that he rests in this basilica by his own decision.
Subsequently, at 18:00, the Holy Mass will be celebrated, during which a message from Pope Leo XIV will be read, who is currently on an apostolic journey in Africa.
A documentary about the pontificate
Coinciding with this anniversary, the Vatican media will also publish a 26-minute documentary dedicated to the figure of Francis. A piece that collects archival images and significant moments of his pontificate, centered on his gestures and the lines that marked his ministry, especially his attention to the peripheries and his insistence on mercy.