VATICAN CITY — Tens of thousands of mourners continued to file past the body of Pope Francis at St.Peter’s Basilica on Thursday, following an all-night vigil that underscored the deep respect and affection felt for the late pontiff.Vatican officials estimate that 61,000 people had paid their respects by midday Thursday,adding to the 48,000 who visited on Wednesday. The basilica remained open nearly continuously, closing only briefly between 5:30 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. to reorganize security.
The Vatican also released the first image of Pope Francis’s tomb, located in the side nave of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, between the Paulina Chapel and the Sforza Chapel, near the altar of St. Francis. The tomb is crafted from Ligurian marble and bears the simple inscription “Francis” along with a reproduction of his pectoral cross.
Among the throng of mourners were members of the association “Argentines in Italy for Memory, Truth and Justice,” wearing black t-shirts emblazoned with the legend “It’s 30 thousand,” a reference to those who disappeared during Argentina’s military dictatorship. Lidia, a member of the association, told corriere della Sera that Pope Francis “was very sensitive to human rights.” She added, “Francisco has always shown it’s closeness to the mothers of Plaza de Mayo.” The association, comprised largely of Argentine exiles who have lived in Italy for decades, wanted to be present “to greet a Pope who has never forgotten the wounds of their country of origin.”
Simultaneously occurring, preparations are underway for Pope Francis’s funeral, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025. World leaders, including U.S. President Kamala Harris, are expected to attend.Argentine President Javier Milei will also travel to Rome,accompanied by a delegation of top officials.
Following the funeral, cardinals will convene in a conclave to elect Pope Francis’s successor. The process must begin within 20 days of the Pope’s death. The cardinals will reside at the domus Sanctae Marthae, or the House of St. Martha,during the conclave. The residence, commissioned by Pope John Paul II, was specifically designed to provide comfortable accommodations for the cardinals during this important process.
The death of Pope Francis has also brought renewed attention to the life of Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old who died in 2006 and who Pope francis was expected to canonize. Born in London but raised in Italy, Acutis was a computer whiz who used his talents to create websites for his parish and school, including a portal documenting miracles around the world.He is now referred to as “God’s influencer.” The priest team of popular neighborhoods and villas of Argentina and the big family home of Christ have summoned a luncheon and a caravan in honor of Pope Francis this Saturday in the city.
In the wake of Pope Francis’s death, reflections on his legacy and the challenges he faced during his papacy have resurfaced.One such challenge was the accusation made by Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, who in 2018 accused Francis of covering up the abuse of Cardinal Theodore McCarrick and demanded his resignation.Viganò’s letter marked a turning point in a campaign to undermine what some considered the Pope’s progressive stances on issues such as climate change, homosexuality, and immigration.
Syrian Transition President Ahmed al Shara expressed his condolences, noting that Pope Francis “accompanied the Syrian people in their most challenging moments” and “raised his voice with fervor against the suffering and injustice suffered by the Syrian population.”
The late Pope’s physician, Roman surgeon Sergio alfieri, shared the poignant details of the Pope’s final moments. He recalled arriving at the Santa Marta residence in the early hours of Monday and finding the Pope unresponsive. “I entered the room and the Pope had his eyes open.I tried to call him, but did not answer. I gave him a caress,” Alfieri told Corriere della Sera. He believes Pope Francis knew his end was near.
Counterargument: Some critics argue that the outpouring of grief and reverence for Pope francis is overblown, given his controversial stances on certain social issues and the ongoing scandals within the Catholic Church. They suggest that the focus should be on addressing the systemic problems within the Church rather than idealizing a single figure. Though, supporters argue that Pope Francis’s efforts to reform the Church, his commitment to social justice, and his compassion for the marginalized deserve recognition and praise. The enormous crowds that have gathered in Rome attest to the profound impact he had on the lives of countless individuals.
FAQ
When is Pope Francis’s funeral?
the funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Where is Pope Francis buried?
He is buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, in the side nave between the Paulina Chapel and the Sforza Chapel, near the altar of St. Francis.
how manny people have visited Pope Francis’s body?
Vatican officials estimate that 61,000 people had paid their respects by midday Thursday, adding to the 48,000 who visited on Wednesday.
Who is attending the funeral?
World leaders, including U.S. President kamala Harris and Argentine president Javier Milei, are expected to attend, along with other religious figures and dignitaries.
* What happens after the funeral?
Cardinals will convene in a conclave to elect Pope Francis’s successor. The process must begin within 20 days of the pope’s death.
