Pope Francis’ coffin was closed and sealed in a private ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica on Friday, April 25, following over 250,000 people’s final respects to the late pope during three days of public visitation.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell led the ceremony, attended by high-ranking officials, relatives, and priests from the Chapter of St. Peter. The liturgy lasted one hour and included a reading of Pope Francis’ life and papacy, silent prayer, and a special prayer asking God to reveal his face to the Church.
The coffin was adorned with Pope Francis’ coat of arms and features that reflect his 88 years and 12-year pontificate. After the ceremony, priests will keep vigil over the coffin until the funeral Mass on April 26 in St. Peter’s Square.
Following the funeral Mass, Pope Francis’ remains will be brought to Rome for a private burial at the Basilica of St. Mary Major.
Source: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/263665/pope-francis-coffin-closed-in-private-ceremony-in-st-peter-s-basilica