The Vatican has confirmed that the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, will take place on Saturday, following his death from a cerebral stroke and irreversible heart failure. The pontiff’s passing has elicited a wave of sorrow from Catholics across the globe.
Images of Pope Francis lying in an open coffin, adorned in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in hand, have been released to the public. These somber photos reflect the pope’s peaceful state as mourners prepare to pay their final respects.
Pope Francis, who had been hospitalized for five weeks earlier this year, leaves behind a profound legacy. His successor will be selected through a papal conclave, which will bring together cardinals under the age of 80 in two weeks to elect a new leader for the Catholic Church.
