Vatican shares photos of Pope Francis in open coffin, funeral date to be decided

The Vatican has released the first images of Pope Francis, showing him lying in his casket while the Vatican Secretary of State prays over him. The photos mark the beginning of an official farewell to the late pontiff, as preparations for his funeral continue.

Cardinals met on Tuesday to plan the funeral, which will be attended by world leaders before a conclave next month to elect a new pope. The Vatican expects the ceremony to take place sometime between Friday and Sunday.

Francis, 88, died on Monday after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest. During his tenure he clashed with traditionalists and championed the poor and marginalised.

Earlier this year, Francis spent five weeks in the hospital battling double pneumonia. He returned to the Vatican nearly a month ago and appeared to be recovering, making a public appearance in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.