Rome ∙ The funeral services of late Pope Benedict XVI are in the final stage. The funeral services began at 2 pm Indian time at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican. Pope Francis will preside over the ceremony. He participates sitting in a chair due to knee pain. He reached the place in a wheelchair.
Thousands of people came to the Vatican area to witness the ceremony from 4 am local time. More than 1000 Italian security forces have been deployed for the security of the event. Italy’s flag is at half-mast today.
The heads of state of 13 countries including Italy, Germany, Belgium are participating in the ceremony. The Cardinal’s Congregation will offer Mass to Dean Giovanni Battista. 120 cardinals and 400 bishops participate in the ceremony. Cardinal Mar George Alencheri, Cardinal Mar Baselius Klimis Katholika Bava, Mar Andrews Gamath, Mar Kuriakos Bharnikulangara and others will participate in the funeral service.
English Summary: Funeral of Pope Benedict XVI – Updates