The Basilica Dome was shrouded in mist as the coffin containing the body of former Pope Benedict XVI was carried out and positioned on the steps facing St. Peter’s Square.
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| Former Pope Benedict XVI’s wooden coffin was carried away at the conclusion of service. Photo: Getty Images via BBC |
Pope Francis was brought out onto the dais on a wheelchair. He presided over the service, and there was applause from the faithful who had converged for the funeral.
Clergy from around the globe were present – nuns and monks in their dark robes, cardinals in their vestments.
The atmosphere was sacred and submissive as latin chants sung by the Sistine Chapel Choir sounded around the square.
Concelebrated by cardinals, bishops and priests, during the mass, Pope Francis ministered about “wisdom, tenderness and devotion that he bestowed upon us over the years”.
The choir sang “May the angels lead you into paradise”, at the conclusion of the service.
Pope Francis placed his hand on the coffin made of wood in a final prayer, before it was carried away to be sealed and placed in another coffin of zinc and an outer one of wood.
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| Pope Francis presided over the service. Photo: Getty Images via BBC |
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| An estimated 50,000 pilgrims attended former Pope Benedict XVI’s funeral. Photo: ETTORE FERRARI/EPA-EFE/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK via BBC |
