The Vatican has released images of Pope Francis laid out in an open coffin during the Confirmation of the Death of the Pontiff ceremony
The Vatican has released solemn images of Pope Francis laid out in his open coffin. This was part of the ‘Confirmation of the Death of the Pontiff’ ceremony.”
Confirmation of Pope Francis’ death and the rituals of his passing
Pope Francis was laid to rest in an open wooden casket.
He was seen wearing red liturgical vestments, a papal mitre on his head, and holding a rosary
The confirmation ceremony took place in the chapel of the Domus Santa Marta, where the Pope had lived.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, read aloud the official declaration of the Pope’s death. The ceremony, which lasted just under an hour, was followed by the sealing of the papal apartment and the residence in the Chapel of Santa Marta.
In the coming days, the Congregation of Cardinals will prepare for his burial and plan the conclave to elect his successor.
The Congregation of cardinals meets to plan funeral and papal transition
The Congregation of Cardinals gathered this morning at the Vatican to begin planning for Pope Francis’ funeral.
The cardinals will also make decisions regarding the upcoming conclave to elect his successor.
Pope Francis dies after health complications
Pope Francis passed away at 88 years old following a cerebral stroke and irreversible heart failure. He had been recovering in his apartment after a five-week hospitalization for pneumonia.
His final public appearance occurred on Easter Sunday, where he delivered his last blessing from the popemobile.
While, the Congregation of Cardinals is determining the timing for the public viewing of Pope Francis’ body, which could begin as soon as tomorrow morning.
Under the guidelines set by Francis himself, the funeral and burial must occur between Friday and Sunday.
The funeral is expected to take place in St. Peter’s Square, which can accommodate around 300,000 people.
Changes to papal funeral customs under Francis’ leadership
Pope Francis opted for a simpler funeral arrangement compared to previous papacies.
While, his body is placed in a single wooden coffin, with a zinc coffin inside, rather than the traditional three wooden coffins.
Key Figures in the coming days of mourning and transition
In the days ahead, Cardinal Kevin Farrell will oversee the administrative duties of the Holy See.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 91, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will play a crucial role in preparing for the election of the new pope.
Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, 81, the vice dean, will also have an important role in the process.
Pope Francis’ final resting place and his personal legac
Pope Francis will be buried at St. Mary Major Basilica, outside the Vatican, where he often prayed before his favorite icon of the Virgin Mary.
His final pilgrimage to the basilica took place after his hospital stay in March, and he returned in April for a final prayer.
Leaders such as former U.S. While, President Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei have expressed plans to attend the funeral.
The pope’s passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church.
President Trump pays tribute to Pope Francis
Previously,President Trump expressed his condolences and admiration for Pope Francis following his death on Easter Monday.
Speaking at the White House Easter Egg Roll event, Trump referred to the late pope as a “good man” who “loved the world” and worked hard to make a difference.
Trump also announced that he signed an executive order.
in short, The order directs all federal and state flags to be lowered to half-mast in honor of the pope’s passing.