On Wednesday morning, Pope Francis was respectfully taken to St. Peter’s Basilica to lie in state, commencing three days designated for public mourning. This period allows individuals to grieve over the passing of the beloved Argentinian pontiff, well-regarded for his modest demeanor, empathy for the impoverished, and persistent advocacy for peace.
Ordinary Catholics have been invited to participate in the public viewing of the pope, who passed away on Monday due to a stroke at the age of 88. The basilica is set to remain open until midnight on both Wednesday and Thursday, granting adequate time for the faithful to engage in mourning. The period of public mourning is slated to conclude on Friday at 7 p.m. local time.
Meanwhile, Vatican cardinals have convened to organize Pope Francis’ funeral and burial, as well as to plan the conclave for electing the new pope and make various decisions regarding the operations of the Catholic Church.
In light of Pope Francis’ death, Israel’s Ambassador to the Vatican, Yaron Sideman, paid his respects at St. Peter’s Basilica, representing the State of Israel. Earlier, a conceding tweet by the Foreign Ministry expressing condolences was deleted, an action that sparked discontent among ambassadors, particularly due to Francis’ critical stance on Israel’s actions in Gaza.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance expressed astonishment at having met Pope Francis just hours before his demise. Speaking from India, Vance cherished what he described as a blessing in shaking the pope’s hand and expressing his prayers for him during their Easter meeting.
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, commended Pope Francis as “the people’s pope,” appreciating his steadfast commitment to peace and his approachable nature during her address to parliament. She highlighted his capacity to engage openly, free of judgment, with individuals despite his esteemed position.
In preparations for the upcoming conclave, the number of cardinal electors has decreased to 133 following the withdrawal of two conservative cardinals due to health issues. The conclave is anticipated to begin no later than May 5.
Acknowledging the high number of visitors, the Vatican is contemplating extending the pope’s viewing hours, possibly keeping St. Peter’s Basilica open past midnight. The basilica has seen long lines of people paying their respects before the open casket of Francis, placed near the main altar. Originally intended to close at midnight, the final viewing will end on Friday before the funeral on Saturday.
In Slovakia, Saturday has been declared a day of national mourning in honor of Pope Francis, with participation expected from Slovakia’s President Peter Pellegrini at the funeral.
Concurrently, cardinals have spoken on the Catholic Church’s needs while honoring Pope Francis. Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik noted the anticipated brief conclave without committing to the potential election dynamics of an Asian successor. Cardinal Zenari emphasized Francis’ vision of an open and accessible church, stressing its relevance today.
In South Africa, a memorial mass was held in Johannesburg’s Cathedral of Christ the King in memory of Pope Francis, attended by church leaders and political figures. The mass was led by Cardinal Stephen Brislin, reflecting on the pope’s legacy of tolerance and compassion.
A significant number of admirers have begun paying their respects to Pope Francis, viewing his simple wooden casket at St. Peter’s Basilica. Over the coming days, thousands are expected to pass through the basilica.
Representing Papua New Guinea at Francis’ funeral will be its first and only cardinal, John Ribat. His participation underscores the global reach of the Catholic Church, cultivated during Francis’ papacy, which included a visit to Papua New Guinea.
Taiwan has also announced its representation at the funeral through former Vice President Chen Chien-jen, underscoring the Vatican’s singular diplomatic relations with the island amid broader geopolitical dynamics.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry faced criticism for deleting its condolence post for Pope Francis, especially given the pontiff’s critical stance on certain political issues. The deletion particularly agitated Israeli diplomats in Catholic-majority nations.
As mourners observed the casket’s movement through St. Peter’s Square, their latest path coincided with Pope Francis’ final tour just days prior. This procession was seen as a testament to his enduring connection with the faithful, despite the challenges of his frail health.
Conversely, JD Vance, currently on an official visit to India, noted his absence at the pope’s funeral while remembering Francis as a mentor and influential religious figure.
The body of Pope Francis was ceremonially transferred from his Vatican home to St. Peter’s Basilica, initiating the three days of public viewing, carefully arranged in line with tradition and decorum.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. honored the late pope, marking a period of national mourning in the country, and will attend the funeral in Rome. Pope Francis had formed a profound connection with the Philippines during his 2015 visit.
President Trump announced plans to visit Rome for the funeral services, traveling to honor Pope Francis despite the absence of confirmed meetings with foreign dignitaries.
In a final note, migrants globally mourn the loss of Pope Francis, a staunch advocate for their rights, voicing concerns over losing a significant ally who championed their human dignity throughout his papacy. Pope Francis’ steadfast support for migrants left a profound impact and a continuing legacy.