Thousands gather in Vatican City to bid farewell to Pope Francis ahead of his funeral, with emotional scenes, tightened security, and world leaders preparing to attend the historic mass.
Vatican City Flooded with Pilgrims
On the eve of the Pope Francis funeral, St. Peter’s Square became the epicenter of global mourning. Over 128,000 mourners queued in silence to pay their final respects to a leader many called the “Pope of the Forgotten.” With the pope’s coffin lying in state inside the Basilica, the city is witnessing one of the largest gatherings in its recent religious history.
The coffin of Pope Francis will be sealed by 7 p.m. local time, marking the final chance for the public to bid farewell before Saturday’s funeral. The atmosphere in Vatican City has been described as both reverent and overwhelming.
Extended Hours, Overflowing Devotion
The massive turnout forced church authorities to extend Basilica opening hours twice. For nearly 24 hours, the spiritual heart of the Catholic world remained open, only briefly closing during the early morning hours for security preparations. From 2:30 a.m. to 5:40 a.m., maintenance and logistical coordination took place behind the scenes.
Despite the solemnity, chaotic moments unfolded. Security barriers were pushed aside by anxious visitors trying to reach the Basilica. Some made it through, others were held back by exhausted guards. The Vatican and Italian police quickly increased security.
Unprecedented Security for Pope Francis Funeral
As the Pope Francis funeral draws near, Rome is on high alert. Drones have been banned, snipers positioned, and fighter jets placed on standby. Additional checkpoints are being set up in preparation for the expected crowds and high-profile attendees.
Officials project 200,000 people will attend the funeral mass on Saturday at 10 a.m. (0800 GMT). Among them are 50 world leaders and 10 monarchs. Confirmed attendees include Argentina’s President Javier Milei, US President Donald Trump, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Germany’s Chancellor Scholz alongside President Steinmeier.
Remembering a People’s Pope
The world is not just mourning a religious leader—it’s mourning a symbol. Pope Francis became known as the voice of the voiceless. He embraced migrants, uplifted the poor, and advocated for inclusion. His critics were many, but his admirers saw in him a champion of humanity.
Emanuela Bisco, a Roman citizen, called him “the pope of the forgotten.” She shared with the AP that she took time off work just to honor him: “He was close to the simplest people, the homeless who were not pushed away.”
Her hope echoes globally: “I hope the next pope will continue his openness and fight for those at the margins.”
A Papal Transition Ahead
Following the Pope Francis funeral, the Church will enter a nine-day mourning period. Then begins the sacred process of choosing his successor. The conclave of cardinals is expected to begin on May 5, where decisions on the next pope will be made behind closed doors.
The world will watch, not just with curiosity, but with hope—hope that the next leader of the Catholic Church carries on the legacy of a pope who walked humbly among his people.
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