Inside the coffin was a special note – known as a biographical certificate – describing the late Pope Francis’ tenure as the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church, according to Metro. 

The affidavit recalls that the Pope was a “simple and beloved shepherd”. He will remain in the hearts of the Church and humanity with the image of “traveling around the city by metro, bus and cooking for himself like a common man”.

The coffin of the late Pope Francis before being sealed. Photo: Vatican Media

Ceremony to close the coffin of Pope Francis on the evening of April 25 (Vatican time). Source: Philstar News

The certificate is read aloud during the casket closing ceremony before it is rolled into a metal tube and placed in the coffin.

Additionally, according to tradition, the late Pope Francis’ robes, tiara and crozier, a pouch containing 12 coins (representing his 12 years in office) and a medal minted during his time as Pope were also placed in the coffin. 

Additionally, a rosary – a traditional item at papal funerals, symbolizing their journey of faith from life to death – and fragments of the “fisherman’s ring” will also be next to the late Pope Francis.

Here are some items that represent important elements of each Pope’s life and their faith.

Before the funeral, the camerlegno, appointed by the late Pope Francis to oversee the transition, will destroy the “fisherman’s ring” in the presence of the College of Cardinals. 

This ring was worn by the late Pope Francis at ceremonies during his 12-year reign as head of the Church.

The “fisherman’s ring” is unique to each Pope and cannot be duplicated. They are designed and crafted in Rome, Italy, by artisans who are members of the Guild of Roman Goldsmiths.

The ritual of destroying the ring that signaled the authority of the late Pope Francis has officially ended, marking the transition of leadership in the Church.

Pope Francis’s coffin is carried through the streets of Rome to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where he will be buried. Source: Vatican News