Vatican announces new ban for people visiting Pope Francis’ body following 'outrageous' behaviour
People across the world have been in mourning since Pope Francis sadly passed away on Easter Monday, but now the Vatican are warning people to stay away as his body lies in an open coffin.
Earlier this week, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis had passed away on 21 April at the age of 88, with camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Ferrell saying in a statement: "At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father."
The Vatican later revealed that he had died as a result of a cerebral stroke which led to a coma and irreversible heart failure. Earlier this year, he was hospitalised at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he had been admitted with pneumonia in both of his lungs and 'acute respiratory failure'.
Pope Francis' body has since been laid in an open casket at St Peter's Basilica, where thousands have come to pay their respects, according to the BBC.
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However, following some inappropriate behaviour, a ban has reportedly been issued by the Vatican.
According to reports, tons of mourners have been taking pictures with Pope Francis' body.
British mourner Catherine Gilsenan, 59, told Brazilian outlet Globo (via The Mirror) that she was 'very emotional' as she waited in the queue to see Francis’ body, but said it was 'awful to see so many people taking photos'.
Meanwhile, another visitor from Wales told The Daily Mail: "What did surprise me is the fact that earlier we were told no photos in the Sistine Chapel and here people were getting their phone out and doing selfies with the coffin.
"I did think that was a bit in poor taste and I’m surprised no one stopped them."
According to The Daily Mail, officials didn't announce a ban on taking photos on cameras, however, guards supposedly stopped a few people from taking pictures.
And now the Vatican has reportedly set some rules. According to The Mirror, those who get within 30 feet of the Pope’s body will now be instructed by guards to put their phones away under threat of confiscation if they do not.
Following Pope Francis' death, a nine-day mourning period will begin, before a process known as 'papal conclave' will begin to select his successor.
The Catholic College of Cardinals will all hold a meeting to elect the next Pope, which will see them all cast their ballot by writing the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot and placing it on the top alter inside a locked Sistine Chapel.
A candidate must receive a total of two thirds of the vote in order to be elected. If no candidate is able to receive two thirds of the ballot, cardinals will vote again.
These votes can take place up to four times each day.
Topics: Pope Francis, World News, Religion
James Moorhouse