Pope's Final Journey: Coffin Sealed in Preparation for Saturday's Funeral

VATICAN – On Friday night, Pope Francis’ wooden coffin was sealed in a private ceremony, concluding three days of his body lying in state at the Vatican, prior to his funeral on Saturday. Approximately 250,000 mourners visited St. Peter’s Basilica to honor the first Latin American pope and Jesuit leader. Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell presided over the rite, supported by family members of the late pope. The intimate ceremony included hymns, prayers, and a moment of silence. Francis’ choice for simplicity is reflected in his single coffin arrangement. The funeral will occur Saturday at 10 a.m. local time outside St. Peter’s Basilica.