Faithful Farewell: Millions Pay Tribute to Pope Francis

In a remarkable display of devotion, citizens from around the globe converged upon St. Peter's Basilica to pay their final respects to Pope Francis, who passed away recently.

As the sun rose over Vatican City on Friday, St. Peter’s Basilica opened its doors to a faithful throng eager to pay homage to Pope Francis, whose body rested in a modest wooden coffin under the iconic dome crafted by Michelangelo. The initial flow of mourners soon became a torrent, with thousands lining up to bid farewell to a leader who touched many hearts across cultures and continents.

The funeral is scheduled for Saturday, following which Pope Francis will be interred at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a location that held significant meaning for him. Since Wednesday, when his body was moved from the Vatican guesthouse, the basilica has remained opened almost continuously for public mourning. By eight in the morning on Friday, an astonishing 128,000 individuals had already visited to honor the late pontiff.

For many, such as Roman resident Daniela Sirigu, waiting in line was a testament to the profound impact Pope Francis had on their lives. “It meant a lot to me to see him, he gave us so much,” she reflected, amidst the diversity of languages and dialects resonating through the crowds.

In anticipation of the funeral, security measures were heightened and road closures began around the Vatican, with about 130 government delegations expected to attend the ceremony. This includes 50 heads of state and 10 reigning monarchs, as confirmed by the Vatican on Thursday.

As crowds gathered, a multitude of volunteers and emergency personnel donned distinctive vests, ready to assist with directions or handle any emergencies. Local sanitation workers remarked on the increased workload in response to the influx of visitors, further illustrating the profound public interest in honoring the late pontiff.