Vatican Releases Photos of Pope Francis in Open Coffin as Cardinals Meet to Plan Funeral

The Vatican is making preparations for the funeral of Pope Francis following his sudden death on Easter Monday, April 21.

 

The 88-year-old pontiff reportedly suffered a stroke and cardiac arrest, bringing an end to a 12-year papacy marked by bold reforms, tensions with traditionalists, and a deep commitment to the poor and marginalized.

Cardinals have gathered in Rome this morning to begin official funeral planning and start the sacred transition to elect a new pope. The meeting, known as the First General Congregation of Cardinals, marks the beginning of rituals outlined in the apostolic constitution Universi Dominici Gregis, which governs the vacancy of the papal seat.

Photographs released by the Vatican show Pope Francis lying in state in the chapel of the Santa Marta residence, where he lived during his time as pope. Dressed in red liturgical vestments with a mitre on his head and rosary in hand, he was placed in a wooden coffin guarded by Swiss Guards.

Read Also: Winning a TGMA Award Is My Short-Term Goal, a Grammy Is the Bigger Dream – Yaw Darling

Although he had been hospitalized earlier this year with a serious case of double pneumonia, Francis had returned to the Vatican and made a public appearance during Easter celebrations, leading many to believe he was on the path to recovery.

Now, attention turns to the timing of his funeral, which according to Vatican rules, should take place between the fourth and sixth day after his death. Italian media outlets suggest the funeral may occur on Saturday, April 26, though an official announcement is yet to be made.

As the Church’s 1.4 billion members mourn, the Vatican has also begun the symbolic rituals that mark the end of a papal reign, including the ceremonial destruction of the Fisherman’s Ring and lead seal, ensuring that no official papal acts can be forged.

Leaders from around the globe are expected to attend the funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, a solemn farewell to the first pope from the Americas, whose legacy will be remembered for both his compassion and controversy.