Following the death of Pope Francis at age 88, the Vatican has announced that his funeral will be held this Saturday.
The pontiff, who served as the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Monday after a prolonged battle with various health complications, including a recent critical respiratory crisis. The Vatican’s official death certificate states that he passed away peacefully in his private apartment.
Earlier in the year, Pope Francis was hospitalized with bilateral pneumonia and had remained under medical supervision for more than five weeks.
In preparation for the funeral and the transition of leadership, the general congregation of cardinals will begin meeting on Tuesday in Vatican City. This gathering will also decide when to commence the conclave to elect his successor.
