Pope Francis Lies in State Ahead of Saturday Funeral
Dublin: Pope Francis’s body has been moved to St Peter’s Basilica for three days of lying in state, with large crowds expected to pay their respects before his funeral on Saturday. The 88-year-old pontiff died on Monday following a stroke and cardiac arrest at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta.
His coffin, carried in a solemn procession, now rests before the Altar of the Confession. After the funeral, his remains will be interred at Santa Maria Maggiore, marking the first burial of a pope outside the Vatican in over a century.
World leaders, including President Michael D. Higgins, Taoiseach Micheál Martin, and Tánaiste Simon Harris, are set to attend. Italy has declared five days of national mourning and is preparing for extensive security measures.
With Francis’s passing, preparations are underway for the conclave to elect his successor. Cardinals under 80 will be called to vote within 15 to 20 days. Francis’s health had declined following a long hospital stay, yet he remained active until his sudden passing.
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