Massive Turnout for Final Farewell
On the last day of public viewing, tens of thousands of mourners from around the world lined up at St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their final respects to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88 following a stroke. The Vatican reported that nearly 130,000 people had visited the basilica by Friday morning, with queues stretching into the streets of Rome.
Extended Hours to Accommodate Mourners
To manage the overwhelming turnout, the basilica remained open throughout the night, closing briefly between 2:30 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. for cleaning. This extension allowed mourners to file past the simple wooden coffin of Pope Francis, which was placed on a dais in front of the main altar, guarded by Swiss Guards.
Diverse Global Attendance
The crowd included people from various countries, reflecting Pope Francis’s global influence. Mourners described the experience as spiritually affirming, despite the long wait times. One visitor noted the sense of community among those waiting, sharing prayers and reflections on the Pope’s legacy. Reuters
Preparations for the Funeral
The public viewing is scheduled to conclude at 7 p.m. on Friday, followed by a private ceremony to seal the Pope’s coffin, led by eight Catholic cardinals. The funeral is set for Saturday morning in St. Peter’s Square, with attendance from numerous international dignitaries, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Security Measures in Place
Given the high-profile nature of the event, Italian and Vatican authorities have implemented stringent security measures around St. Peter’s Square, including drone restrictions, rooftop snipers, and fighter jets on standby. Additional checkpoints are being activated to ensure the safety of attendees.
Reflection on Pope Francis’s Legacy
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, was known for his humility and dedication to the marginalized. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance, with many recalling his efforts to promote peace and inclusivity within the Church.