More than 20,000 mourners have formed long queues to pay their respects to Pope Francis as he lies in state at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Pope Francis lies in State at St. Peter’s Basilica for threes days
Since the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, his body has been placed on display for the public to pay their final respects.
The Vatican opened the doors of St. Peter’s Basilica early this morning.
It allowed the faithful to gather in long queues to see the pontiff’s open casket.
For the next three days, people from around the world will be able to honor Pope Francis.
Additionally, His simple wooden casket, adorned with a bishop’s mitre and a rosary, sits at the altar.
As the faithful pass, many have paused for prayer, while others simply blow a kiss to their late pope.
Eight-Hour waits and steady flow of Mourners
The public image was revealed, showing long queues to pay respects.
Mourners have been described as waiting for up to eight hours to see Pope Francis’ body.
Despite the lengthy wait, many have said that the lines are moving relatively quickly.
One mourner shared how her final goodbye was brief, simply offering a kiss to the pontiff’s open casket.
Additionally, the Vatican has extended visiting hours, staying open until midnight to accommodate the vast number of visitors.
The basilica will reopen at 7 a.m. tomorrow for the continued procession.
Tens of thousands expected to attend Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday
While Pope Francis’ body lies in state, the Vatican has prepared for even larger crowds over the coming days.
At least 200,000 mourners are expected to gather at Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday, April 26.
The funeral mass will be held outdoors, and preparations are underway for the solemn occasion.
Earlier today, the body of Pope Francis was transported from Casa Santa Marta to St. Peter’s Basilica in a solemn procession.
As the casket was carried through St. Peter’s Square, a crowd gathered in silence, offering applause as a traditional sign of respect.
Additionally, a male choir performed psalms in Latin, and the basilica bells tolled, marking the final journey of the 88-year-old pope.
The procession included cardinals, priests, and Swiss Guards, all in attendance as Pope Francis’ body was moved through the large crowd.
Devotion and reflection: Mourners recall the Pope’s Message of inclusion
Many mourners arrived in Rome to pay their respects, having come for Easter or personal reasons, only to be met with the news of Pope Francis’ death.
While, among those in attendance was Ivenes Bianco, who expressed how deeply the pope’s message of inclusion resonated with her.
“Pope Francis encouraged co-existence and brought many people together,” Bianco said after paying her respects.
The pope’s passing has touched countless lives, particularly due to his emphasis on caring for the poor and his humble leadership.
As the public mourning period continues, cardinals are privately meeting to finalize the preparations for Pope Francis’ funeral.
Additionally, they are also disussing the process for electing his successor. Despite some criticism from conservative factions, Pope Francis’ 12-year pontificate will be remembered.
His inclusive message, attention to the marginalized, and efforts for peace will leave a lasting legacy.