Pictorial of Pope Francis’s Funeral: On Saturday, Pope Francis’s wooden coffin was brought into St. Peter’s Square, marking the beginning of a funeral Mass attended by a large gathering of mourners, including global leaders, clergy, and pilgrims.
As the coffin, adorned with a prominent cross, was carried out of St. Peter’s Basilica and into the sunlit square by 14 pallbearers in white gloves, applause erupted from the crowd.
The ringing of bells signalled the arrival of the last leaders from over 150 nations. Among the dignitaries was U.S. President Donald Trump, who had previously engaged in notable disagreements with Pope Francis regarding their opposing views on immigration.
The open-air service, set to be conducted by 220 cardinals, 750 bishops, and more than 4,000 priests, was expected to last 90 minutes.
The pope’s casket was positioned on a carpet in front of the altar, with the book of gospels resting on top, as the choirs of the Vatican performed.
To one side of the altar, a large assembly of cardinals in red robes faced rows of world leaders dressed in black suits on the opposite side. In front of them were hundreds of priests in white vestments, along with thousands of regular mourners.
Many faithful individuals arrived at the Vatican early in the morning, with some camping out to secure prime viewing spots for the ceremony.
