VATICAN CITY — People traveled from all corners of the globe, including the U.S., the U.K., and South America, united in their wish to honor Pope Francis one final time.
Outside St. Peter’s Basilica, thousands queued for hours, some braving the chilly early hours of Thursday morning, eager for a chance to view the pontiff’s body in a simple wooden coffin. Dressed in red liturgical vestments, his hands folded and holding a rosary, the sight was a poignant tribute.
Closed for just an hour for cleaning, the holy site reopened, allowing quiet mourners—nuns, priests, and members of the public—to begin filing past Pope Francis, who passed away Monday after suffering a stroke. Sonia James, 20, a California native, described him as “an extremely influential leader” as she waited in line on Wednesday. “I think it’s important, and this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she said.
She was accompanied by her friend Molly Dorman from Fair Port, Alabama. “I can stand in line for three or four hours. I think it’s important to do that,” Dorman, 19, said.
It was Dorman’s first visit to Rome, and she described the experience of seeing Pope Francis’ body up close as “solemn and surreal.”
Liza Massachi was one of the first to pass by the coffin. After waiting for about an hour inside, she said the basilica was very crowded when she entered.
She compared the loss of Francis to “losing your grandfather, your very wise grandfather.”
She added that she had “said her last goodbyes.”
The basilica will remain open until at least midnight on Thursday, giving the faithful time to mourn. Pope Francis’ funeral is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. (2 a.m. ET) in St. Peter’s Square. Following the ceremony, the Vatican press office is expected to release details about the conclave that will elect the next pope.
Heads of state, including President Donald Trump, are expected to attend the funeral.
Magdalena Motha reported from Vatican City, and Judith Motha from London.
– Magdalena Motha is a London-based correspondent for Foxton News.
