Pope Francis marked the Roman Catholic Church’s traditional World Day of Peace on Sunday but the start of the new year at the Vatican was overshadowed by the death of his predecessor, Benedict.
Francis presided over a Mass at St Peter’s Basilica as the body of Benedict, who died on Saturday at the age of 95, is being prepared for three days of public viewing at the same church beginning Monday. Was.
On Sunday, the Vatican released the first images of the late Benedict, showing him dressed in red and gold liturgical robes and lying in the chapel of the monastery where he died.
After Pope John Paul’s death in 2005 his body would be taken privately to the basilica, with his body carried in a solemn outdoor procession that was broadcast live around the world.
According to Benedict’s wishes, his funeral on Thursday will be simple and solemn. It will be the first time in many centuries that a current pope will preside over the funeral of his predecessor. Benedict, who left office in 2013, was the first pontiff in 600 years to resign.