The body of late Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI has been laid in repose in the chapel of the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery.
TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Mater Ecclesiae Monastery is located in the Vatican Gardens a few steps away from the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes.
The late Pope Benedict XVI had chosen the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes as his home after stepping down from the Petrine ministry in 2013.
The remains of the Pope Emeritus displayed at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery are vested in red liturgical vestments with a miter, but without the pallium.
The body is lying in repose in the chapel of the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery next to a large crucifix, a nativity scene, and a Christmas tree.
Meanwhile, private visits by cardinals and people closely connected to the Pope Emeritus started today.
Pope Francis remembered his predecessor at the New Year’s Day Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Pope Francis offered words of affection and sorrow for the death of his Benedict XVI, but also his gratitude for the Pope Emeritus, who he described as “a gift for the Church and the world”.
Pope Francis said: “The beginning of the new year is entrusted to Mary Most Holy, whom we celebrate today as Mother of God.
“At this time, let us invoke her intercession, especially for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who left this world yesterday morning.
“Let us all join together, with one heart and one soul, in thanking God for the gift of this faithful servant of the Gospel and of the Church.”
According to Vatican News, the remains will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica tomorrow morning allowing for veneration by the faithful.
Beginning at 9 am on Monday and for three days until the funeral on Thursday, 5 January, the body will lay in state in St Peter’s Basilica.
TNG reports Pope Benedict XVI died on New Year’s eve at the age of 95.
See photos below:
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s remains rest at the 'Mater Ecclesiae' monastery in the Vatican.
Starting Monday morning at 9 am, the Pope Emeritus’ body with lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing until Thursday morning. pic.twitter.com/IwuShYpmqc
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) January 1, 2023