Pope Francis, aged 88, passed away on April 21, 2025, at 07:35 local time, and his remains will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica for public mourning. Following the announcement of his death, the Vatican has initiated the procedures for his lying in state, where mourners can pay their respects starting Wednesday, with Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell overseeing the transition as interim Pope. Unlike previous popes, Pope Francis will not be in a casket; instead, he will lie on red velvet pillows on a podium in the basilica before his funeral, which must occur between Friday and Sunday.
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