Funeral for Pope Francis confirmed for Saturday

The funeral of Pope Francis will take place on Saturday, the Vatican has confirmed.

The Pontiff’s body will be on display for the public to pay their respects in St Peter’s Basilica from Wednesday morning.

Further details of the Pope’s funeral have also been confirmed, with mass to take place at 10am local time on Saturday, celebrated by the dean of the College of Cardinals.

The 88-year-old died on Easter Monday following a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.

On Tuesday, he was pictured lying in a wooden coffin dressed in red, with rosary beads draped across his hands.

His death on Monday comes after the Pope’s five-week hospital stay in Rome’s Gemelli hospital, following a 38-day struggle with pneumonia in March.

“At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell said on Monday.

“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.”

Francis, who was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1936, ushered in a new era of leadership in the Roman Catholic Church when he was elected Pope in 2013.

Following the funeral, there are nine days of official mourning, with the conclave required to begin 15 to 20 days after the sede vacante is declared, although it can start sooner if the cardinals agree.

His death has triggered a massive outpouring of tributes from around the world.

His death comes less than 24 hours after the Vatican celebrated Easter on Sunday.

Almost immediately after news of his death was announced, First Minister John Swinney paid tribute.

“It is with deep sadness I heard the news this morning of the death of Pope Francis,” Swinney said.

“He was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation in our society. He brought comfort, assurance and hope to many. May he Rest in Peace.”

King Charles’ message following to death of Pope Francis said he will be remembered for his compassion, and his “tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith”.

“Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many,” the King’s message stated.

“The Queen and I remember with particular affection our meetings with His Holiness over the years and we were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month.

“We send our most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Church he served with such resolve and to the countless people around the world who, inspired by his life, will be mourning the devastating loss of this faithful follower of Jesus Christ.”