“It is with deep sadness and hope in the Resurrection that we mourn the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI,” Daniel Cardinal DiNardo said in a Dec. 31 statement. Pope Benedict XVI elevated Cardinal DiNardo to the College of Cardinals on Nov. 24, 2007
“From 2005 to 2013, the late Holy Father shepherded the Church with great love,” said Cardinal DiNardo said. “His keen intellect invigorated the New Evangelization by drawing hearts and minds into the mystery of our redemption in Christ, and inspiring countless men and women to spread the Gospel by the example of their lives.”
Vatican officials said the late pope’s funeral arrangements will begin Jan. 2. The 95-year-old pope's body will stay at his private residence, where he passed away, until early Jan. 2. His remains will then be brought to St. Peter's Basilica, where people will be able to pay their last respects and offer their prayers until Jan. 4.
The funeral Mass, presided over by Pope Francis, will be in St. Peter's Square Jan. 5 starting at 9:30 a.m. Rome time. And the only official delegations to be present will be from Germany and Italy, the Vatican said.
After the funeral Mass, the coffin will be taken to St. Peter's Basilica and then to the Vatican grotto for burial.
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