Cardinals this morning held their first of what will be many daily meetings, cloistered away from the Vatican crowds as they firm up plans for Pope Francis’ funeral, which will be held Saturday, and the ensuing conclave.

"At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father," the Vatican announced on Monday. Mourners quickly gathered in St. Peter's Square in Rome to celebrate Francis, 88, and his 12 years as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church.