For the first time in the thousand-year history of the Catholic Church, the reigning pope, the Argentine Francis, will preside over the funeral of another pope, this time without functions, Benedict XVI, who died at his residence inside the Vatican.
“According to the wish of the pope emeritus, the funeral will be carried out in the greatest simplicity”added the papal spokesman.
The body of the emeritus pontiff, pope from 2005 until his resignation in 2013, will be exposed starting Monday in Saint Peter’s Basilica to be venerated by believers.
According to experts in religious affairs, since there is no specific protocol for the death of a pope emeritus, his funeral will be very similar to that of a working pope “but without a conclave” and “without a vacant seat.”
During that time, the corpse of the pontiff will remain in full view of all, on a sober tapestry, with liturgical vestments. Only a few hours before his burial he will be placed in a coffin covered by two others: the exterior, of elm wood; the one in the middle, of lead; and the interior, made of cypress wood.
A space in the crypt located next to the catacombs of San Pedro has been reserved to house the body of Benedict XVI, unless he has left instructions to be buried elsewhere.
According to the regulations established by the Apostolic Constitution Dominici Gregis, promulgated by John Paul II in 1996, Francis is going to decree official mourning.
Cardinals around the world will celebrate Eucharists for their eternal rest during those days.
Source: Ambito
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