Rehearsals for the Pope’s funeral are currently underway amid health worries.
Concerns have arisen regarding the health of the 88-year-old Pope Francis, who has been struggling with pneumonia and has received warnings about the possibility of not surviving.
The Swiss Guard, tasked with his safety, has been practicing funeral protocols and is reportedly under a curfew in preparation for the potential of his passing, as noted by Swiss newspaper Blick.
The Pope previously mentioned that he had made arrangements for his burial, though his grave’s location and the design of his coffin will differ from conventional practices.
These events come in the wake of Pope Francis’s admission to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after experiencing chest discomfort.
Despite being recommended to leave the Vatican, he opted to stay and was later diagnosed with a complicated respiratory infection, leading him to cancel multiple scheduled appearances.
The Vatican subsequently confirmed the diagnosis of pneumonia and stated that antibiotics are currently being administered for the infection.
“Lab tests, chest X-rays, and the Pope’s clinical condition continue to present a complex picture,” noted the Vatican.
The situation raises additional concern because the Pope had one lung removed many years ago.
“The calmness of Francis is evident. His fate lies in the hands of the Lord,” the Vatican stated.
The Pope’s funeral will adhere to a strict and ceremonial procedure, as custom dictates in the Catholic Church.
When a Pope dies, the Vatican has a well-established protocol for the funeral, typically occurring a few days after death to ensure adequate preparation.
Here’s a more detailed look at what usually transpires during the ceremony.
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