Moscow: President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Russia Archbishop Paolo Pezzi and pilgrims from Russia may attend the funeral of Pope Francis, as stated by Auxiliary Bishop to the Archdiocese of the Mother of God in Moscow, Nicolai Dubinin, to RIA Novosti on Monday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, earlier in the day, the Holy See announced that Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family and Life, confirmed that Pope Francis died at 5:35 GMT.

Dubinin mentioned that it is customary for the archbishop or one of the representatives to attend the funeral, along with many believers. He noted that while organized pilgrimages are not feasible, the farewell to the pope is generally open to all, ensuring the presence of many participants, including those from Russia.

Catholic churches across Russia will conduct prayers for the repose of Pope Francis from Monday, Dubinin added.