POPE Francis prayed for his predecessor's passage to heaven as he presided over a special New Year's Day Mass in St Peter's Basilica on Sunday.
The huge basilica will host the coffin of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI from today, and thousands of faithful are expected to attend the first of three days of viewing.
Benedict (95) died on Saturday morning in the Vatican where he had lived since retirement. He was the first pope in centuries to resign, citing his increasing frailty.
On Sunday, Benedict's body lay on a burgundy-coloured bier in the chapel of the monastery. He was dressed in a mitre, the headgear of a bishop, and a red cloak-like vestment. A rosary was placed in his hand.
Behind him - visible in photos released by the Vatican - was the chapel's altar, and a decorated Christmas tree.
Francis looked weary and sat with his head bowed as Mass began on the first day of the year, an occasion the Catholic Church dedicates to the theme of peace.
He departed briefly from reading his homily to pray aloud for Benedict.
President Michael D Higgins said that at a time of the return of war on the European continent, Benedict will be remembered "for his untiring efforts to find a common path in promoting peace and goodwill throughout the world, including a steadfast interest in peace in Northern Ireland".
Archbishop Eamon Martin said he found Benedict to be kindly and personable, and genuinely interested in the Church in Ireland.
