Mourning fills St. Peter's Square as devotees celebrate the life and legacy of the beloved Pope
Pope Francis's Body Lies in State at St. Peter's Basilica
Pope Francis's Body Lies in State at St. Peter's Basilica
Faithful Gather to Bid Farewell to the Pontiff Ahead of His Funeral
On Wednesday, the body of Pope Francis was solemnly transported to St. Peter's Basilica for public viewing, allowing countless devotees to pay their respects ahead of his funeral, scheduled for Saturday. The late pontiff, who passed away at the age of 88 following a stroke and complications from double pneumonia, was transported in an open coffin during a formal procession attended by thousands.
Red-robed cardinals and white-clad clergy escorted the Pope's coffin from the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse to the basilica in a ceremony marked by the sounding of church bells and applause from worshippers gathered in St. Peter's Square. Public viewing commenced at 11:00 local time, with large crowds anticipating their opportunity to pay homage to a leader who held the papacy for over a decade as the first Latin American representative of the Catholic Church.
Mourners began to form queues early in the morning, illustrating the profound impact Pope Francis had on many, both within the Church and beyond. Attendees shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting his advocacy for marginalized groups and his efforts to promote unity across cultural and social divides. "He fought for the poor and connected with people from all walks of life," said American devotee Mary Ellen, who traveled overnight to prioritize honoring the pontiff’s memory.
Other mourners expressed hope for the future of the church and appreciation for the Pope's progressive values, which brought new hope to many believers. "It is now up to us to continue his good works," stated Fredrik, a Ghanaian national currently residing in Poland. The funeral service will feature numerous dignitaries, with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Prince William in attendance, though the late pontiff requested a modest ceremony reflective of his personal style.
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis's burial will take place in a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome, not in St. Peter’s, marking a final chapter in his campaign for a simpler, more humble approach to the papacy. As the Sede Vacante commences, the world awaits the election of the next Pope, and many will carry forward the teachings and spirit of Pope Francis in their hearts.
Red-robed cardinals and white-clad clergy escorted the Pope's coffin from the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse to the basilica in a ceremony marked by the sounding of church bells and applause from worshippers gathered in St. Peter's Square. Public viewing commenced at 11:00 local time, with large crowds anticipating their opportunity to pay homage to a leader who held the papacy for over a decade as the first Latin American representative of the Catholic Church.
Mourners began to form queues early in the morning, illustrating the profound impact Pope Francis had on many, both within the Church and beyond. Attendees shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting his advocacy for marginalized groups and his efforts to promote unity across cultural and social divides. "He fought for the poor and connected with people from all walks of life," said American devotee Mary Ellen, who traveled overnight to prioritize honoring the pontiff’s memory.
Other mourners expressed hope for the future of the church and appreciation for the Pope's progressive values, which brought new hope to many believers. "It is now up to us to continue his good works," stated Fredrik, a Ghanaian national currently residing in Poland. The funeral service will feature numerous dignitaries, with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Prince William in attendance, though the late pontiff requested a modest ceremony reflective of his personal style.
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis's burial will take place in a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome, not in St. Peter’s, marking a final chapter in his campaign for a simpler, more humble approach to the papacy. As the Sede Vacante commences, the world awaits the election of the next Pope, and many will carry forward the teachings and spirit of Pope Francis in their hearts.
