Pope Francis
The Vatican welcomed thousands of mourners on Wednesday as Pope Francis’s coffin was brought to St Peter’s Basilica, marking the beginning of three days of public viewing before his funeral on Saturday.
The Argentine pontiff, who passed away at the age of 88 on Monday, was deeply revered for his humility, advocacy for the poor, and his message of peace throughout the world.
The coffin was transported in a solemn procession from Pope Francis’s residence at Casa Santa Marta to the historic basilica. It was accompanied by Swiss Guards, numerous cardinals, and somber chants that filled the air, along with the scent of incense.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who is currently overseeing the Vatican’s administrative affairs until a new pope is elected, led the procession. The Litany of the Saints was chanted inside the basilica as the coffin was brought to rest.
In a break from tradition, Pope Francis’s coffin was placed directly on the basilica’s main altar instead of being elevated on a bier. This gesture was seen as symbolic of his preference for simplicity and his desire to remain close to the people he served.
The basilica will remain open to the public until midnight on Wednesday and Thursday, with viewing concluding on Friday evening.
St Peter’s Square was filled with pilgrims and mourners from early morning, as security measures were intensified to manage the expected crowds. Visitors from across the globe came to pay their respects to the late pontiff. Micale Sales, a pilgrim from Brazil, described Pope Francis as a great pastor and a friend to all. Similarly, Amit Kukreja from Australia reflected on the pope’s powerful message of peace and non-violence.
The funeral is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. local time and will take place in St Peter’s Square. Dignitaries from around the world, including US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, are expected to attend the service.
Meanwhile, the Holy Year celebrations initiated by Pope Francis in December continue amid the mourning. Pilgrims who pass through the Holy Door at St Peter’s Basilica are being granted indulgences, following a long-standing Catholic tradition aimed at reducing temporal punishment for sins.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was elected pope in 2013, becoming the first Latin American and the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church. His papacy was marked by a strong emphasis on mercy, environmental responsibility, and inclusivity. While he won admiration from many for these stances, he also faced criticism from more conservative factions within the Church.
His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, when he greeted the faithful and offered a blessing during a ride through St Peter’s Square. According to Vatican sources, he initially hesitated due to health concerns but was later grateful he had the opportunity to bid farewell in person.
Reflecting on the pope’s passing, Julio Henrique, a visitor from Brazil, shared a sentiment echoed by many: “The death of a pope is not a small thing, because we’ve lost our leader. But still, in a few days, we will have a new leader. So, the thing of hope remains. Who will assume Peter’s throne?”
