Images of Pope Francis Lying in Repose released by Vatican

Images of Pope Francis Lying in Repose released by Vatican 

In the days following the death of Pope Francis at age 88, the Vatican has released the initial official images showing the late pontiff lying in repose. These solemn visuals were shared on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025, as the College of Cardinals begins convening to finalize arrangements for the papal funeral and the traditional nine-day mourning period commences.

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Images and Official Cause of Death

The photographs and video depict Pope Francis resting peacefully in an open casket within the private chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, his Vatican residence where he passed away. He is dressed in traditional red papal vestments, wearing a mitre, with a rosary placed in his hands. The release of these images offers a formal, albeit private, first glimpse following his death.

The Vatican also confirmed the official cause of death, citing a medical report signed by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, head of the Vatican’s health directorate. The report stated Pope Francis died at 7:35 AM local time on April 21st due to complications from a cerebral stroke, which led to a coma and irreversible heart failure. Contributing factors noted included Type II diabetes, high blood pressure, and previous respiratory issues.

Funeral Preparations Underway

The body of Pope Francis is scheduled to be transferred soon to St. Peter's Basilica, where the public will be permitted to pay their respects. This period of lying in state precedes the funeral Mass. Cardinals have started arriving in Rome for the General Congregations, meetings where they will determine the specific date and details for the funeral ceremony and the late Pope's burial, adhering to the established rites following the death of a pontiff. Further announcements regarding these arrangements are expected shortly.

The release of the first images of Pope Francis lying in repose starts the formal mourning process observed by the Vatican. As the faithful prepare to pay their respects publicly in St. Peter's Basilica, the College of Cardinals undertakes the crucial task of organising the final farewell rites, ensuring a tribute appropriate to the legacy of the late Pope.