FIRST Minister John Swinney will attend the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome this weekend.
The 88-year-old, who died on Easter Monday, has been dubbed by some as the “people’s pope”, having spoken out for the poor and those in need in his lifetime and shunned many of the extravagances that come with papal life.
Since his remains were transferred to St Peter’s Basilica, thousands of mourners have stood patiently in line, with the queue snaking its way through the square to the Holy Door of the building.
Large crowds are also expected for Saturday’s funeral in St Peter’s Square, with Prince William, a future head of the Church of England, confirmed to be attending on the King’s behalf.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer will also be there, alongside other global leaders and dignitaries including US president Donald Trump, French president Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, Irish premier Micheal Martin, and Irish president Michael D Higgins.
Swinney said: “His Holiness Pope Francis was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation who had a natural ability to connect with people of all ages, nationalities and beliefs.
“On behalf of the people of Scotland, I am deeply honoured to attend the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome to express my sorrow, thanks and deep respect for the compassion, assurance and hope that he brought to so many.”
Police have been managing crowd control at various points on the approach to the square, with some checking bags, as mourners mingled with the usual tourist population.
In accordance with the late pope’s wishes, Francis will be buried at the Basilica of St Mary Major in Rome, breaking with the tradition of papal burials in St Peter’s Basilica.
Asked about the route the pope’s remains will take from the square to his final resting place, the Vatican spokesperson said he expects the Italian authorities will provide details in due course.
He added that it is likely St Mary Major will close for Saturday afternoon when the Pope’s remains arrive following the funeral, but reopen for people to take part in the rosary there on Saturday evening.
