An Post dispatched a package of almost 4,000 Mass cards from Irish people sympathising on the death of Francis for direct delivery to the Vatican in Rome.

Shortly after 5pm, crowds in St Peter’s Square bore witness to history as white smoke billowed into the air from a specially-erected chimney at the chapel, in the age-old tradition.

A group of 133 cardinal electors began their behind-closed-doors meeting this afternoon.

Cobh-based Fr Aquin Casey said being able to attended the funeral was a 'once in a lifetime experience' 

“Obviously it was a funeral so it was sad. But there was a lovely sense of remembrance and calmness in the Basilica."

Among the many world leaders who were in attendance at the funeral included an Irish delegation of President Michael D Higgins, Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris.

Speaking ahead of the funeral, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “It is an honour to represent the Government and people of Ireland at the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis, and to reflect on and appreciate the remarkable achievements of his life."

Ireland’s delegation comes ahead of both of the UK’s representatives: Prince William, and the British Government delegation.

Caitríona Twomey of Cork Penny Dinners, who was part of the High Hopes Choir that sang for Pope Francis during his visit to Ireland in 2018, said 'we could feel his humility, we could see the smile that was very special to everybody and we all felt it together as we were all looking at him.'

Mr Higgins will be among world leaders and dignitaries to attend the funeral of Pope Francis this weekend. He will be accompanied by his wife, Sabina.

The late pontiff will be buried on Saturday, following his death on Easter Monday aged 88.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell will play a crucial role in the days and weeks that the Roman Catholic Church is without a pope.

Francis, who died following a stroke aged 88 on Easter Monday just a day after greeting crowds in Vatican City, drew tributes for his strong advocacy for the poor and marginalised.

The Vatican has announced the death of Pope Francis. Here, we revisit an article by JOHN DOLAN, which asked if a cardinal with Cork roots could become his successor. 

Some blood tests showed “initial, mild, kidney failure”, but doctors said it was under control.