Most of the funeral will be celebrated in Latin, and there will be incense and hymns and Gregorian chants. Attended by dozens of heads of state, monarchs and other dignitaries, it will be, in any case, a spectacle. And at the center of it all will be Francis’ simple coffin, on the esplanade of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Over the next few days, leaders of the Catholic church from around the world will gather at the Vatican to mourn — and also, to prepare for the Conclave.