| By AP News Photos: Wikimedia Commons Cardinals met Tuesday for the first time since Pope Francis’ death to chart the next steps before a conclave begins to choose his successor. Read more. |
| What to know: The cardinals have taken their first decisions following the death of Francis, setting the funeral for Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square. Ordinary faithful will be able to pay their final respects starting when his casket is brought into St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday. After the funeral, there are nine days of official mourning, known as the “novendiali.” Francis died Monday at age 88 after suffering a stroke that put him in a coma and led his heart to fail. He had been recovering in his apartment after being hospitalized for five weeks with pneumonia. He made his last public appearance Sunday, delivering an Easter blessing and making what would be his final greeting to followers. When a pope dies, a period known as the “sede vacante,” or the “vacant See,” is declared, giving everyone time to assemble. The conclave must begin 15-20 days after the “vacant See” declaration, although it can start sooner if the cardinals agree. Once the conclave begins, cardinals vote in secret sessions in the Sistine Chapel to choose the next head of the Catholic Church. |
