VATICAN CITY (AP) – The body of Pope Francis is scheduled to be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica early Wednesday, allowing the Catholic faithful to pay their final respects to the Argentine pontiff, who passed away at the age of 88 following a stroke. Francis is remembered for his humble demeanor, commitment to the poor, and continuous prayers for peace.
While heads of state are expected to attend his funeral on Saturday in St. Peter’s Square, the initial three days of public viewing are intended for ordinary Catholics to mourn the late pope, who died on Monday. Initially, the pope lay in state at the Santa Marta Domus for a private viewing for Vatican residents and members of the papal household. Images released by the Vatican depicted Francis in an open casket, adorned in a traditional pointed headdress and red robes, with his hands clasped over a rosary. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s No. 2, was shown praying by his side.
On Wednesday morning, Francis' body will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica, where it will be available for viewing until midnight on both Wednesday and Thursday, allowing the faithful ample time to pay their respects. The public mourning period will conclude on Friday at 7 p.m. Unlike previous popes, Francis' casket will not be placed on an elevated bier; instead, it will rest directly on the main altar of the 16th-century basilica, facing the pews.
In preparation for the viewing and funeral, Italian police have heightened security measures, conducting foot and horse patrols around the Vatican. This comes as pilgrims continue to arrive for the Holy Year festivities that Pope Francis inaugurated in December. Those who pass through St. Peter's Holy Door can receive indulgences, a means of atonement for sins.
Many attendees expressed their sentiments about the late pope. Micale Sales, visiting from Brazil, described Pope Francis as “a great pastor” and “a great friend.” Amit Kukreja from Australia noted that the pope spread a message of peace, advocating for a violence-free world.
Pope Francis’ funeral is set for Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square and will be attended by numerous leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. During this week, cardinals are actively convening to plan the conclave for electing the next pope, as well as discussing other Church governance matters amidst the global grieving for the pontiff.
The first Latin American pope, Francis won hearts worldwide with his humility and concern for the disadvantaged but faced criticism from many conservatives due to his views on capitalism and climate change. He last appeared publicly on Easter Sunday, delivering a blessing and participating in a popemobile tour through a throng of supporters in St. Peter’s Square.
Despite having some initial reservations about the crowded square, which was filled with approximately 50,000 faithful, Francis ultimately decided to greet the crowd, expressing gratitude for the interaction. He passed away the following morning.
“The death of a pope is not a small thing, as we’ve lost our leader,” remarked Julio Henrique from Brazil. “But still, in a few days, we will have a new leader. So... the thing of hope remains. Who will assume Peter’s throne?”
