Pope Francis' Final Resting Place: A Look at the Symbols

Pope Francis is currently resting in an open coffin inside a chapel at the Casa Santa Marta. This is the same place where he lived before becoming the leader of the Catholic Church. The chapel is filled with symbols that hold deep meaning in Christianity. One of the most important figures in the room is Cardinal Kevin Farrell. He is the Pope's chamberlain and will be in charge of the Vatican until a new Pope is chosen. He is dressed in red robes and is seen blessing the late Pope's body during a special ceremony. Pope Francis is dressed in red robes and is wearing a simple silver ring. He is also holding a rosary, a string of beads used for prayer. On his head, he wears the papal mitre, a large white ceremonial headdress. This is different from the Fisherman's Ring, a symbol of his office, which he sometimes used during ceremonies. The coffin that Pope Francis will be buried in is also different from those used in the past. Previous popes were buried in three coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak. However, Pope Francis asked to be buried in a simple wooden casket. He will remain in the open coffin for the lying in state, unlike other popes who were laid out on cushions on a platform. The chapel itself is full of symbols. Triangular shapes can be seen throughout, representing the Holy Trinity - a key belief in Christianity. There is also an inscription in Latin on the ceiling behind the coffin, which translates as "Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful". The Pope's body is guarded by members of the Vatican's Swiss Guard, who have been protecting the Pope since 1506. Pope Francis will stay in the chapel until Wednesday morning. His body will then be moved to St Peter's Basilica in a procession. From then, mourners can pay their respects ahead of his funeral on Saturday. The Swiss Guard will continue to protect the Pope's body during this time. This is a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, and the symbols and traditions surrounding it hold deep meaning for believers around the world.