VATICAN CITY — A solemn and historic moment unfolded in St. Peter’s Basilica as thousands of mourners from across the globe gathered for the final day of public viewing to pay their last respects to Pope Francis.
Pilgrims, dignitaries, clergy, and ordinary faithful stood in long, winding lines under the Roman sun, waiting for their turn to honor a spiritual leader whose voice echoed across continents for over a decade.
Since his passing earlier this week, the Vatican has opened its doors to an unprecedented wave of visitors. St. Peter’s Square, often the site of jubilation and papal blessings, was transformed into a space of reflection, prayer, and reverence.
Security remained tight but respectful, as officials sought to accommodate the surging number of attendees who came to bid farewell to the man who redefined papal leadership in the 21st century.
Inside the basilica, the late pontiff lay in state near the high altar, his simple white vestments adorned only with a gold-trimmed stole and rosary beads entwined in his hands.
The atmosphere was hushed. Visitors moved slowly past his body, many crossing themselves, whispering prayers, or shedding quiet tears.
Others simply stood in silence, overwhelmed by the gravity of the moment and the spiritual presence of a pope who had touched countless lives.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, made history in 2013 as the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. His papacy was marked by humility, reform, and a tireless pursuit of social justice.
From championing the poor to confronting the climate crisis, from promoting interfaith dialogue to challenging structures of clerical power, Francis carved a deeply human and compassionate path through the often rigid corridors of the Vatican.
For many of the faithful gathered, his loss felt personal. “He made us feel seen,” said Luciana Donati, a pilgrim from Brazil.
“Even in a crowd, he had a way of speaking to your soul.” Others remembered his bold stances on immigration, his outreach to the marginalized, and his simple lifestyle — from shunning the papal palace to driving a modest car.
Throughout the day, prayers were led in multiple languages, reflecting the global impact of his papacy.
Choirs from around the world sang hymns that Francis had favored, and candles were lit at small altars placed throughout the basilica. Vatican officials confirmed that over 750,000 people have visited since the public viewing began, with even more expected to attend the funeral tomorrow, which will be held in St. Peter’s Square and presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State.
Many world leaders, including presidents, monarchs, and spiritual figures, have confirmed their attendance at the funeral — a rare and poignant moment of unity in a world often divided.
While preparations continue, the Vatican has emphasized that the ceremony will reflect the pope’s own wishes: simple, inclusive, and focused on Christ rather than grandeur.
As night fell over the Eternal City, the final groups of mourners passed through the basilica. Some knelt. Others placed flowers near the railings.
A quiet chant echoed through the marble halls: “Franciscus, ora pro nobis” — “Francis, pray for us.”
The man is gone, but his message remains.