Following the sudden passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, the Vatican has released the first images of the Holy Father lying in state at Casa Santa Marta. The pope is seen in a white mitre and red chasuble, holding a rosary. As the Church mourns, the faithful have gathered in St. Peter’s Square to reflect on his legacy and impact on the Church. Personal testimonies from pilgrims recall his humility and commitment to the poor. On Wednesday morning, Pope Francis' body will be taken to St. Peter's Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their final respects to the first Latin American pope. His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26. He will be buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, in accordance with his final wishes, in the simplest of tombs bearing only the inscription of his papal name in Latin: Franciscus. EWTN contributor Valentina Di Donato has more.
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