In the midst of a somber atmosphere, thousands of mourners have been flocking to St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their final respects to the late Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 due to a stroke. The unprecedented turnout has led the Vatican to extend viewing hours, with doors remaining open through the night to accommodate the solemn procession.
The basilica, usually filled with the hum of visitors, was enveloped in a profound silence as people slowly shuffled up the main aisle, wanting to bid farewell to a leader known for his humility and inclusivity. By Thursday evening, there had been over 90,000 visitors, a testament to Pope Francis’ widespread influence and the deep affection many felt for him.
Among those waiting in the long lines was Emiliano Fernandez from Mexico, who expressed his willingness to spend hours just for a chance to honor a pontiff he admired since the pope’s visit to Mexico in 2016. For many, like Irishman Robert Healy, making the pilgrimage to Rome to be present and pay their respects was a last homage to the beloved religious leader.
People from diverse backgrounds and countries joined the line that stretched through St. Peter’s Square and up the Via della Conciliazione. Groups ranged from young students attending the ceremony of a nearly canonized saint to families using the occasion as a moment of reflection and teaching for their children.
Rosa Scorpati, who visited with her children, explained this was their way to say goodbye to a pope they never got to meet in life. Like many others, the Scorpati family had been in Rome on holiday during Easter when news of the pope’s passing broke. Those mourning took solace in each other’s company, reflecting on a legacy of forgiveness and compassion symbolized by their journey through the basilica’s Holy Door, where penitents earn an indulgence during the Holy Year celebrations.
Pope Francis’ funeral will take place after the public viewing concludes, scheduled for Saturday, and will attract various dignitaries and heads of state. The burial will follow in St. Mary Major Basilica, near an icon of the Madonna he cherished.
Anticipating a significant international presence at the upcoming funeral ceremony, Italian authorities have heightened security measures around the Vatican. Enhanced patrols, including drone surveillance, have been implemented to ensure the safety of the expected attendees, including 50 heads of state and dignitaries, such as former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Rome’s prefect, Lamberto Giannini, reassured that the “security machine” is prepared, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere amid the solemn proceedings.
Pope Francis’ passing marks the end of a 12-year pontificate renowned for a sociable message and initiatives to support the impoverished. Despite facing criticism from conservative sectors, his transparency and acceptance of different communities garnered widespread appreciation.
The public’s interaction during the pope’s procession from a secluded Vatican chapel to St. Peter’s Square represented a mix of ceremonial grandeur and heartfelt farewells as people snapped photos and said quiet prayers by the pope’s simple wooden casket.
Amongst the attendees, emotions varied from the tearful sorrow of a mourning nun to the grateful reflection shared by Ivenes Bianco, attributing her admiration to Pope Francis’ efforts in uniting people and welcoming diverse communities.
For Humbeline Coroy from France, her pilgrimage, initially intended for a canonization ceremony now postponed, turned into an experience of poignant camaraderie as she conversed with compatriots and exchanged condolences.
Notably, cardinals have been converging on Vatican City to prepare for the funeral and potential conclave discussions. Set to commence no earlier than May 5, this conclave will elect a successor, with 134 eligible cardinals expected to participate following official mourning observances.
The conclave anticipates intense convening, but as French Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco noted, their focus now remains centered on honoring Pope Francis, with discussions of succession forthcoming.