Funeral of Pope Francis

First Minister John Swinney will meet Bishop Keenan, the President of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland, to reflect on the life of His Holiness Pope Francis and discuss the role of faith communities in Scotland and abroad, as they both attend the funeral of His Holiness in Rome today.

The First Minister will be in Rome alongside mourners including world leaders and heads of state. He is expected to arrive at St Peter’s Square around 9am where he will take his seat ahead of the service commencing.

Following the service, he will attend a reception at the residence of the UK Ambassador to the Holy See and will then meet with Bishop Keenan.

First Minister John Swinney said:

“On behalf of the people of Scotland, I am deeply honoured to attend the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis in Rome to express sorrow, thanks and my respect for the compassion, assurance and hope that he brought to so many. People around the world greatly valued the peacefulness, the focus on reconciliation and the spiritual leadership that he gave.

“I am attending to express the respect of the people of Scotland for the leadership that Pope Francis has given, particularly regarding justice, standing in solidarity with the poor, working for peace and reconciliation in the world."

Background

In line with Scottish Government flag protocol, flags will fly at half-mast on the main Scottish Government buildings on Saturday 26 April 2025 to mark the funeral of the late Pope Francis.