The Vatican confirmed that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI passed away at the age of 95. According to the Holy See Press Office, Benedict, who became the first German pope in 1000 years, passed away at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery, where he had chosen to live after stepping down in 2013. The Vatican announced that his remains would lie in state in Saint Peter's Basilica beginning on Monday. On January 5, Francis will preside over the funeral, which will be held in St. Peter's Square. At 9:30 am, the ceremony is scheduled to begin. The Vatican has been evasive on Benedict's illness, stating only that his deteriorating health was brought on by his senior age. Benedict served as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the prominent head of the Vatican's doctrinal office, formerly known as the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, for nearly 25 years.

Key Points

• The Vatican confirmed that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI passed away at the age of 95. 

• Benedict served as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the prominent head of the Vatican's doctrinal office, formerly known as the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, for nearly 25 years.