PHOTOS: Vatican releases images of Pope Francis in casket, announces funeral details

The Vatican has released the first official photographs of Pope Francis lying in state, offering a solemn glimpse of the late pontiff in his casket.

The images show the Pope at rest in the chapel of the Santa Marta residence, where he had lived throughout his 12-year papacy, with the Vatican Secretary of State praying over him.

The release comes as preparations for the funeral are underway. Vatican officials have confirmed that the funeral service will take place on Saturday morning in St Peter’s Square, beginning at 9am UK time (10am local time).

This follows the passing of the 88-year-old Pope on Monday morning, after what officials later confirmed to be a stroke and heart failure.

The liturgy will be led by the dean of the College of Cardinals, the Most Reverend Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. A Vatican spokesperson announced, “the coffin of the Roman Pontiff will then be taken to St Peter’s Basilica and from there to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore for burial.”

Pope Francis’ body will be moved into St Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday at 8am UK time, where the public will be given the opportunity to pay their respects in the days leading up to the funeral.

A Vatican employee who saw the Pope’s coffin on Tuesday morning described the atmosphere as “so sadly impressive,” adding that “some of the Pope’s closest aides were in tears around his body.”

Following the funeral, the Vatican has confirmed that a conclave to elect a new pope will begin on 5 May.
(Sky News)

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