Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was laid to rest Thursday.

Soon after Benedict’s death, President Joe Biden expressed condolences over the Catholic Church’s loss.

“Jill and I join Catholics and others around the world in mourning the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI,” Biden posted on Twitter.

Biden is the second Catholic to serve as U.S. president. The other was John F. Kennedy.

“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.”

Benedict, who died on Dec. 31 at the age of 95, 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 duties, according to a BBC report. He was the first pope to leave office since Gregory XII resigned in 1415.

The public was invited to view Benedict this week as his body was lying in state in St Peter's Basilica from Monday to Wednesday. Vatican officials said they expected 25,000-30,000 visitors the first day, but more than 65,000 people stopped by Monday, the Associated Press said in a report.

Pope Francis led Thursday’s funeral, which started at 9:30 a.m. local time in Vatican City, CNN reported.