Large crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square as Pope Francis' body was moved into the Basilica. REUTERS
Pope Francis’ body was laid in state at St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, allowing thousands of Catholic pilgrims to pay their respects. The open wooden coffin was placed at the Altar of the Confessio, a holy area near St. Peter’s tomb. The procession bringing Pope Francis’ body to the basilica began early in the morning from his residence, Casa Santa Marta.
As the procession made its way through St. Peter’s Square, people gathered to witness the event. By the end of the day, over 19,000 people had visited the basilica. Among them were Ludovico and Romano, two residents of Rome who felt it was important to say their final goodbyes. “He was such a spiritual guide,” Ludovico shared, recalling the impact of the Pope’s leadership.
The crowds continued to grow throughout the day, with long lines stretching outside Vatican City. Many people waited for hours to pay their respects to the late Pope. Inside, the basilica was peaceful, filled with worshipers praying silently or chanting. Even though there were hundreds inside at once, the atmosphere was respectful and quiet.
Victoria Risso, a French pilgrim, spoke of the emotional experience after waiting for over three hours. “It was a powerful moment,” she said, despite only having a few seconds to view the body. Brinna Bitenco from Brazil described the scene as “really beautiful,” though she expressed regret at not having seen the Pope alive. “He’s now in a better place,” she added.
Mourners lined up to pay their respects as Pope Francis lay in state at St. Peter's Basilica on Wednesday. REUTERS
The basilica was open from 11 a.m. to midnight for the public, and it will remain open at these hours on Thursday and Friday. Vatican authorities have allowed people in line outside to stay overnight, ensuring they don't lose their place.
The Pope’s open wooden coffin marks a departure from tradition, as it lacks the usual three coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak. This simpler approach is part of Francis’ desire to simplify the papal funeral rites. A brief service led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell preceded the procession. Farrell prayed, thanking the Lord for the many gifts Pope Francis had bestowed upon the Christian people.
Pope Francis’ body was carried into the basilica as bells rang slowly, and mourners outside applauded. The funeral is set to take place on Saturday, six days after his passing, in St. Peter’s Square. Around 250,000 people are expected to attend, including numerous world leaders.
Among those attending the funeral are US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Francis, the first Latin American Pope, served as a spiritual leader and symbol of hope for millions across the globe. His passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church, but his influence will continue to be felt by all who were touched by his words and actions.
