The final funeral rites for the late Pope Francis are set to commence at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, will lead the solemn requiem mass in honour of the late Pope, according to an announcement by the Vatican early Saturday.
“Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the Solemn Requiem Mass for Pope Francis from the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica,” the statement read.
The Vatican also confirmed that the liturgy would be broadcast live on Facebook, YouTube, and other platforms.
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88, following complications from a stroke, a coma, and heart failure.
He will be laid to rest on Saturday at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, specifically in the Pauline Chapel, which houses the historic icon of Maria Salus Populi Romani.
The burial location honours Pope Francis’ personal wishes as outlined in his Spiritual Testament.
The late pontiff had been battling health issues and had multiple hospitalisations since February 14.