Grieving Pope Francis yesterday took with him 12 white roses as he went to pay his last respects to his seven months pregnant receptionist found dead in Rome. The Argentinian pontiff visited the body of Wuolou ahead of the funeral service, in the church of Santo Stefano degli Abissini.

After laying the flowers, the Pope sprinkled the coffin with holy water and remained in prayer for 20 minutes.

The pope opted to live at the Santa Marta guesthouse after his appointment in 2013, rejecting the grand papal apartments because he found them too sumptuous and he feared isolation.

Miriam is thought to have died alone, of suspected problems related to her diabetes, which had already led doctor to warn that her pregnancy at risk.

Police are investigating a case of neglect and have interviewed family members, her ex-husband from whom she was separated, and most recent boyfriend, thought to be a policeman in the Vatican, according to Rome-based newspaper il Messaggero.

Her brother found the body on Friday after he had not heard from her for several days.

•Adapted from a Daily Mail report. Photo showsPope Francis depositing flowers near the casket of his late receptionist . . . yesterday.