Cardinals meeting in the Vatican have confirmed that Pope Francis’ funeral will be held on Saturday morning, marking the start of nine days of official mourning.
The announcement follows the Vatican’s release of images showing the late pope in an open casket, dressed in his red robe with the papal mitre and rosary.
Pope Francis, 88, passed away after a stroke led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.
He had been hospitalized earlier this year due to double pneumonia but returned to the Vatican in March to recover.
Bells tolled worldwide and flags flew at half staff in various countries as mourners prayed for the pope.
In honor of the Argentine pontiff, soccer matches in Italy and Argentina were suspended, reflecting his known passion for the San Lorenzo club.