Goa, April 26 -- In a solemn private rite on Friday night, Pope Francis' wooden coffin was officially sealed, concluding three days of public mourning during which around 250,000 mourners paid tribute inside St. Peter's Basilica.

The intimate ceremony, closed to the public, was led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Dublin-born former Bishop of Dallas who now serves as Camerlengo, overseeing the arrangements for the pope's burial. Alongside him were senior clergy from Venezuela and Brazil, the late pope's secretaries, and several family members.

A statement from the Vatican detailed the spiritual elements of the rite, which included hymns, prayers, and a moment of silence. In accordance with tradition, a white silk veil was placed over Pope...