World
Vatican Seals Papal Quarters After Pope Francis’ Passing on Easter Monday
Sacred tradition observed as Vatican officials close the doors to the Apostolic Palace and Casa Santa Marta following the Pope’s death
- Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21
- Vatican officials sealed his residences at the Apostolic Palace and Casa Santa Marta
- Cardinals will meet on April 22 to begin planning the funeral
In a solemn ceremony, the doors to Pope Francis’ papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace, as well as his personal quarters at the Casa Santa Marta, have been officially sealed.
The act was carried out by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, in accordance with traditional Vatican protocol following the death of a pope.
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21. Later that evening, at 8:00 PM, a formal rite was held in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta to confirm his death and begin preparations for burial.
The declaration of death was read aloud and validated by Cardinal Farrell, who serves as Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church. The ceremony lasted just under an hour.
The College of Cardinals will hold its first General Congregation on Tuesday morning, April 22, where plans for Pope Francis’ funeral are expected to be discussed and possibly finalized.
