The Vatican has issued a new ban for visitors after outrage over inappropriate behavior near Pope Francis’ body during the viewing.
People around the world are mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday.
The Vatican has announced new rules for visitors wishing to pay their respects to him as his body lies in an open coffin.
Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis passed away at age 88
Pope Francis died on April 21 at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the camerlengo, shared the news with the public.
He stated, “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”
Pope Francis suffered a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.
Earlier this year, he had been hospitalized for pneumonia and respiratory issues.
Thousands pay their respects at St. Peter’s Basilica
Pope Francis’ body has been placed in an open casket at St. Peter’s Basilica. Many people have come to pay their respects.
According to reports, thousands of mourners have visited the Basilica since the announcement of his death.
This outpouring of grief shows how much he was loved by people all over the world.
Some people show disrespectful acts at Pope Francis’ public viewing
Despite the solemn occasion, some visitors have behaved inappropriately.
Reports indicate that many mourners have taken pictures with Pope Francis’ body.
This behavior has upset other visitors. Catherine Gilsenan, a mourner from Britain, expressed her dismay.
She said it was “awful to see so many people taking photos” during such a serious time.
Another visitor from Wales also voiced her concerns.
She noted that while people were told no photos were allowed in the Sistine Chapel, many were taking selfies in front of the coffin.
“What did surprise me is the fact that earlier we were told no photos in the Sistine Chapel and here people were getting their phone out and doing selfies with the coffin.
“I did think that was a bit in poor taste and I’m surprised no one stopped them.”
Vatican imposes new ban on people visiting Pope Francis’ body
Due to the inappropriate behavior, the Vatican has issued new guidelines.
Starting now, visitors who get within 30 feet of Pope Francis’ body will be instructed by guards to put their phones away. If they do not comply, their phones may be confiscated.
This decision aims to maintain the dignity of the occasion and ensure that visitors show proper respect.
The mourning period precedes the papal conclave.
After Pope Francis’ death, a nine-day mourning period will commence.
Following this period, the Catholic College of Cardinals will hold a meeting to select his successor.
This process is known as the papal conclave. The cardinals will gather to cast their ballots for the next pope.
During the conclave, each cardinal will write the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot.
They will then place their ballot on the altar inside the locked Sistine Chapel.
To be elected, a candidate must receive two-thirds of the votes. If no candidate achieves this majority, the cardinals will vote again.
Voting can take place up to four times each day until a new pope is selected.