Video: Pope Francis’ coffin sealed in private ceremony after three days of public viewing

In a deeply solemn ceremony on Friday evening, the Vatican officially sealed Pope Francis’ coffin, marking one of the last rites before his funeral Mass set for Saturday morning.

Video link: Video: Pope Francis’ coffin sealed in private ceremony after three days of public viewing

The intimate event at St. Peter’s Basilica was attended by high-ranking Vatican officials and members of the Pope’s family, following three days of public mourning during which nearly 250,000 people paid their respects.

As reported by Vatican News, Pope Francis’ body was positioned before the Confessio altar, dressed in a red chasuble, a white mitre, and holding a rosary. In keeping with his personal wishes, the coffin was placed at ground level, rather than on a traditional catafalque.

Cardinal-Camerlengo Kevin Farrell led the ceremony, beginning with a reading of a formal document highlighting significant moments from Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s life and papacy, stating that his legacy “remains in the heart of the Church and of all humanity.”

Archbishop Diego Ravelli then spread a white silk veil over the Pope’s face and blessed the coffin with holy water. Coins and medals minted during Francis’ pontificate were placed inside alongside him, symbolising the span of his service.

The wooden coffin was enclosed within a zinc casket, upon which the Pope’s cross, coat of arms, and a plaque bearing his name, dates of life, and papal tenure were affixed.

As psalms were sung, Vatican officials imprinted the seals of the Cardinal-Camerlengo, the Papal Household, the Office for Liturgical Celebrations, and the Vatican Chapter.

The final sealing of the wooden coffin marked a poignant close to the farewell preparations for the 266th leader of the Catholic Church.