Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was laid to rest Thursday after a crowd of about 50,000 attended his funeral in Vatican City.

After Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s recent passing, President Joe Biden tweeted condolences.

“Jill and I join Catholics and others around the world in mourning the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI,” Biden said in his tweet.

Benedict died on Dec. 31 at the age of 95. He became the head of the Catholic Church in 2005, after John Paul II’s death. Benedict resigned in 2013, saying he felt health issues were hindering his ability to carry out his papal duties. He was the first pontiff to resign since Gregory XII did so in 1415, according to the BBC.

“He'll be remembered as a renowned theologian, with a lifetime of devotion to the Church, guided by his principles and faith,” Biden said in his tweet. “May he continue to be an inspiration to all.”

Biden is only the second Catholic to be elected president of the U.S. The other was John F. Kennedy.

A public viewing opportunity was available this week as Benedict’s body was lying in state in St Peter's Basilica Monday through Wednesday. The first day of the viewing drew more attendees than expected. The Vatican expected 25,000-30,000 visitors the first day, but more than 65,000 people stopped by Monday, the Associated Press reported.

Pope Francis officiated Thursday’s funeral, which started at 9:30 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square, CNN said in a report.