Vatican City: Cardinals Meet as Pope Francis's Funeral Details Emerge

Papal Funeral Arrangements

• 🕊️ Pope Francis's funeral has been scheduled for Saturday morning at 10 AM.
• 📍 His body will lie in an open coffin, with the public able to pay respects starting Tuesday morning after prayers in St. Peter's Basilica.
• 📜 Pope Francis left a last will and testament, dated June 29, 2022, expressing a wish to be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, not St. Peter's Basilica.

Cardinal Congregations and Conclave

• ⛪ The first congregation of cardinals concluded, with 60 cardinals participating to discuss funeral details and upcoming events.
• 🗓️ Many cardinals are meeting for the first time, preparing for the conclave that will follow the funeral to elect the 267th Pontiff.
• 🗳️ A total of 135 cardinals will be eligible to vote in the upcoming conclave.

Public Mourning and Historical Significance

• 💔 The body of Pope Francis was viewed for the first time overnight as he lies in state.
• 🎶 A group of high school music students from Massachusetts, on a pre-planned trip to Rome, found their visit transformed into a history lesson and a moment of shared reflection on the Pope's passing.
• 🌍 For many, this period is a significant historical moment, with the students acknowledging the sadness but also the educational value of being present during this time.