The funeral is now on in Vatican City's vast St Peter's Square, with Pope Francis presiding over the Mass, which will see readings in German, Italian, Arabic, Portuguese and French.
Towards the end of the service, Pope Francis will sprinkle holy water on the coffin and light incense.
And he will recite the "Final Commendation and Farewell", asking God to "console the Church".
He will say: "Gracious Father, we commend to your mercy Pope Emeritus Benedict, whom you made successor of Peter and shepherd of the Church, a fearless preacher of your word and a faithful minister of the divine mysteries."
That will be said in Latin and a choir will also sing in Latin: "May the angels lead you into paradise; may the martyrs come and welcome you and take you into the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem."
According to Reuters news agency, a prayer will be said that includes petitions to God for the late Benedict as well as Pope Francis.
Source: BBC
Image: Reuters
