The late Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church for twelve years, has had his body moved to St Peter's Basilica for public viewing ahead of his funeral.
Pope Francis's Body Lies in State as Thousands Mourn
Pope Francis's Body Lies in State as Thousands Mourn
Affectionate tributes continue to pour in as mourners gather to pay respects to the late pontiff.
Pope Francis's body has been moved from his Vatican residence to St Peter's Basilica, where it will lie in state until his funeral on Saturday. The open coffin was transported through St Peter's Square in a solemn procession, attracting thousands of worshippers who came to offer their final respects. This poignant moment was marked by the traditional tolling of bells and applause from the crowd, reflecting a deep affection for the late pontiff.
Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke and enduring a battle with double pneumonia, made history as the first Latin American leader of the Catholic Church, serving for 12 impactful years. On Wednesday, red-robed cardinals and white-clad priests escorted the coffin from the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse to St Peter's Basilica, an emotional process that lasted about 40 minutes.
Public viewing began at 11:00 local time, with crowds, including those who had traveled long distances, gathering to pay homage. Many expressed their love for the pontiff, highlighting his humble nature and advocacy for social justice issues, particularly relating to immigration and marginalized communities. Mary Ellen, an American residing in Italy, mentioned the Pope's struggles against the powerful Vatican establishment, lamenting that he had "put up with a lot."
Attendees reflected on the Pope’s legacy, with Margo, a French resident, stating that his progressive views brought "hope" and that she hoped his successor would continue in his footsteps. Notably, dignitaries, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, are set to attend the funeral, though Pope Francis had specifically requested a modest ceremony reflecting his simpler tastes.
In a departure from tradition, he will not be interred in St Peter's but instead will rest in a dedicated church to the Virgin Mary in central Rome, under a tombstone marked solely with his name. His papal apartments have been sealed, initiating the Sede Vacante period until a new pope is elected.
Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke and enduring a battle with double pneumonia, made history as the first Latin American leader of the Catholic Church, serving for 12 impactful years. On Wednesday, red-robed cardinals and white-clad priests escorted the coffin from the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse to St Peter's Basilica, an emotional process that lasted about 40 minutes.
Public viewing began at 11:00 local time, with crowds, including those who had traveled long distances, gathering to pay homage. Many expressed their love for the pontiff, highlighting his humble nature and advocacy for social justice issues, particularly relating to immigration and marginalized communities. Mary Ellen, an American residing in Italy, mentioned the Pope's struggles against the powerful Vatican establishment, lamenting that he had "put up with a lot."
Attendees reflected on the Pope’s legacy, with Margo, a French resident, stating that his progressive views brought "hope" and that she hoped his successor would continue in his footsteps. Notably, dignitaries, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, are set to attend the funeral, though Pope Francis had specifically requested a modest ceremony reflecting his simpler tastes.
In a departure from tradition, he will not be interred in St Peter's but instead will rest in a dedicated church to the Virgin Mary in central Rome, under a tombstone marked solely with his name. His papal apartments have been sealed, initiating the Sede Vacante period until a new pope is elected.
