The coffin of former pope Benedict was brought to St. Peter’s Square and placed on the altar on Thursday (January 5) for the funeral Mass that will be presided over by Pope Francis.
Benedict, a world renowned theologian, died at 95 on Saturday (December 31) in a monastery within the Vatican gardens where he moved after becoming the first pontiff in 600 years to stand down, opening the way for the election of Pope Francis, who has proved a more reformist, hands-on leader.
While many leading figures have praised Benedict since his death, criticism has also been aired, accusing him of having sort to protect the Church at all costs.
After the funeral ceremony, the coffin will be taken back inside the basilica and encased in zinc before being sealed in a second wooden casket.
