Today begins the "long farewell" to Benedict XVI, the pope emeritus who died on the morning of December 31 at the age of 95.
From today until Wednesday, Joseph Ratzinger 's coffin will be displayed for the homage of the faithful in St. Peter's Basilica , where thousands of people are expected.
In the basilica, for the tribute to the Holy Father, also the President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella and the Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni , for a private visit before the opening of the funeral chamber to the public, together with the Undersecretary to the Prime Minister Alfredo Mantovano and the Minister of 'Agriculture Francesco Lollobrigida.
On Thursday 5 January, however, the funeral will be celebrated, in the presence of Pope Francis. Then the burial, in the Vatican Grottoes, alongside many other popes in history.
"Jesus, I love you", the last words Benedict whispered before expiring , testifying to a firm and unshakable faith, like the one he himself invited to carry on in his will.
And Bergoglio too, yesterday, in the Angelus, gave "thanks to God for the gift of this faithful servant of the Gospel and of the Church".
(Unioneonline/lf)
