Official: Pope Francis' Personal Chambers Sealed

On the day of Pope Francis' passing, around 20:00, an official document regarding his death was read, and his body was placed in a coffin, as reported by the Vatican News official portal.

Following this, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo (the temporary head of the papacy), along with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, sealed off the personal chambers of Pope Francis located in the papal palace and his residence in Rome.

These measures are part of a transitional process that begins at the moment of the Pope's death and continues until the election of a new pontiff. Under Cardinal Farrell's supervision as Camerlengo, the papal fisherman's ring was also broken, marking the commencement of the Sede Vacante period (translated from Latin meaning 'vacant seat') and preceding preparations for the conclave that will elect the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

The sealing of these areas ensures the safety of the deceased Pope's documents and personal belongings before they are turned over to his successor. The Vatican's official website has also updated its information, noting the status of Sede Vacante.