VATICAN CITY – A sea of faithful pilgrims has descended upon Vatican City, forming long, winding queues as they seek to pay their final respects to Pope Francis on the last day he lies in state. St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of Catholicism, has become a focal point of global mourning, with thousands enduring hours of waiting to file past the late pontiff’s open casket.
The outpouring of grief has been immense, with mourners traveling from across the globe to bid farewell to a figure who touched the lives of millions. The Vatican has been overwhelmed by the sheer volume of visitors, with officials extending viewing hours to accommodate the vast crowds.
Inside St. Peter’s Basilica, a hushed reverence permeates the air. Pilgrims, many visibly emotional, pass by Pope Francis’s simple wooden coffin, a testament to his preference for humility. Some offer silent prayers, others clutch rosaries, and many capture fleeting images on their phones, seeking to preserve a personal connection to the moment.
Image source: Vatican Media
The atmosphere is a blend of solemnity and shared devotion. The long wait outside the basilica has fostered a sense of community among mourners, who share stories and memories of Pope Francis’s impactful papacy. His emphasis on social justice, his advocacy for the marginalized, and his calls for interfaith dialogue have resonated with people from diverse backgrounds.
As the day progresses, the flow of mourners shows no sign of abating. Vatican officials are preparing for an even larger influx of visitors in the lead-up to Saturday’s funeral, which is expected to draw heads of state, religious leaders, and dignitaries from around the world.
Security measures have been significantly heightened in and around Vatican City, with Italian authorities deploying additional personnel to manage the crowds and ensure the safety of those in attendance. The sheer scale of the event presents a logistical challenge, but the prevailing atmosphere remains one of peaceful mourning.
The final day of Pope Francis lying in state marks the culmination of a period of profound reflection for the Catholic Church and the world. As the city prepares to say its final farewell, the enduring image is one of thousands united in grief, paying tribute to a leader who left an indelible mark on their lives.