Vatican Releases Open Casket Images as Funeral Preparations Begin

The Vatican has released images of Pope Francis lying in an open coffin, taken during the Confirmation of the Death of the Pontiff ceremony held on Monday.

His funeral is set to take place on Saturday at 10:00 am (0800 GMT) in the square in front of St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.

“He did not suffer. It all happened quickly,” Vatican News reported, citing those who were with the pontiff in his final moments. Before falling into a coma, Pope Francis waved to his personal nurse Massimiliano Strappetti from his bed, in what was described as “a gesture of farewell.”

As the cardinals gather to elect a new pope, tributes continue to pour in for Francis, a liberal reformer who took over following the resignation of German theologian Benedict XVI in 2013. “He’s sure done a lot of good things for the church and for the people. I think he changed the way other people view us, Catholics,” said tourist Leandro Martins.

Pope Francis will be remembered for his tireless advocacy for the defence of migrants, the environment, and social justice. Despite his views sparking fierce internal opposition, Francis remained committed to his vision for the Church. His funeral will be a testament to his enduring legacy.