According to sources familiar with the plans, the New York Post reported that President Trump is anticipated to be present at Pope Francis’ funeral in Vatican City later this week.
The funeral and burial for Francis, who died at the age of 88, are anticipated to occur within four to six days following his passing, although the precise timetable is still being determined.
Though, during the White House Easter Egg Roll Trump didn’t confirm whether he will be a part of the funeral ceremony. “I don’t know yet. We’re going to be briefed on it right now … I just have to look at the timing,” he told the reporters.
When inquired about his recollections of Francis, whom Trump encountered in his initial term in 2017, the US President said that he was a very good man who cared for the world, and had a special affection for those facing difficulties, which resonates with me.
Flags at half-staff nationwide to commemorate Francis: Trump
Trump stated he had instructed flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide to commemorate Francis, although this directive had not been publicly announced by 1 p.m. Monday.
The passing of a pope initiates a sequence of meticulously organized ceremonies and traditions. Qualified cardinals ultimately cast their votes for a new pope in the Sistine Chapel.
Former President Bush had attended the funeral of Pope John Paul II
In 2005, US President at the time George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush were present at the funeral of Pope John Paul II, the latest pope to die while serving.
The Bushes were joined by then-Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and ex-presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush.