January 5, 2023
Benedict … may your joy be complete as you hear his voice, now and forever!
Pope Francis speaking at the funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. About 50,000 people attended the ceremony in Vatican City.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, 95, was laid to rest today after passing away on December 31st, 2022. His casket was carried from St. Peter’s Basilica to St. Peter’s Square where Pope Francis presided over the service.
This was the first occasion in modern times in which a pontiff presided over the funeral of his predecessor. Benedict resigned from his position as pope in 2013 becoming the only pope in modern history to do so. The ceremony was similar to that of previous popes, though the language of some prayers was different. Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is buried beneath St. Peter’s Basilica where about 90 other popes have also been laid to rest.
Faithful mourn Benedict XVI at funeral presided over by pope (The Associated Press)
Pope Francis leads funeral for predecessor Benedict XVI, a first in modern times (CNN)
by Jenna Lee,
