Pope Francis Leads Funeral for Benedict XVI

Pope Francis Leads Funeral for Benedict XVI

Pope Francis Leads Funeral , for Benedict XVI.

Pope Francis Leads Funeral , for Benedict XVI.

NBC News reports that Pope Francis led the funeral for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at the Vatican on Jan.

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NBC News reports that Pope Francis led the funeral for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at the Vatican on Jan.

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According to Reuters, it was the first time in over two centuries that a pontiff has led the funeral service for a predecessor.

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According to Reuters, it was the first time in over two centuries that a pontiff has led the funeral service for a predecessor.

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The mass, which was attended by approximately 50,000 people, took place at 9:30 a.m.

Local time.

The mass, which was attended by approximately 50,000 people, took place at 9:30 a.m.

Local time.

In his homily, Pope Francis referenced Benedict's "wisdom, tenderness and devotion that he bestowed upon us over the years.".

In his homily, Pope Francis referenced Benedict's "wisdom, tenderness and devotion that he bestowed upon us over the years.".

Benedict, faithful friend of the Bridegroom,(Jesus) may your joy be complete as you hear his voice, now and forever!, Pope Francis, via homily.

In 2013, Benedict shocked the world by resigning as pope.

He was the first pope in 600 years to do so.

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At his funeral, many of his supporters called for Benedict to be made a saint.

Reuters reports that three of the last five popes have been canonized.

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Benedict was buried in the underground grottoes at the Vatican where Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II were interred before being moved to the basilica above.

Benedict was buried in the underground grottoes at the Vatican where Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II were interred before being moved to the basilica above