Today, at 8:00 p.m. Rome time, at the Altar of Confession in St. Peter’s Basilica, the rite of the Closing of the Coffin of the Roman Pontiff took place.
The rite was presided over by the Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell, the acting head of the church and Master of Liturgical Celebrations. Farrell read a deed summarizing the highlights of the late pope’s pntificate, which was then placed in the coffin along with several of Francis’ possessions, such as his pallium and coins minted during his reign.
A statement issued by the Vatican added that “some family members of the deceased Pope also participated in the rite.”
“During the night,” continued the Vatican statement, “the Chapter of St. Peter’s will ensure a presence of prayer and vigil for the body of the Pontiff, until the preparations for Holy Mass tomorrow morning.”
After the funeral in St. Peter’s Bascilica, the pope’s casket will be processed to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, his final resting place.
Photos and video footage from Vatican Media
