Pope Francis Lies in State: Public Viewing at St. Peter’s

Pope Francis Lies in State at St. peter’s Basilica; Funeral Expected to Draw World Leaders

VATICAN CITY (Archyde.com) — The body of Pope Francis is lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing thousands of mourners and dignitaries as the Vatican prepares for his funeral on Saturday. the late pontiff, who died Easter Monday at the age of 88, will lie in repose for three days, allowing the public to pay their respects before the solemn ceremony.

The Vatican confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump is among the world leaders expected to attend the funeral, underscoring the global impact of Pope Francis’s papacy.

The transfer of Pope Francis’s body to the basilica occurred earlier Wednesday in a procession led by Camerlengo Kevin joseph Farrell, the cardinal now responsible for overseeing the arrangements for the funeral and the subsequent conclave to elect the next pope. Bells tolled slowly as the coffin entered the basilica at 9:30 a.m. local time (3:30 a.m. ET), prompting applause from mourners gathered in St. peter’s Square.

The coffin was placed at the Altar of the Confessio, a revered site directly in front of the main altar and above the tomb of St.Peter, considered the frist pope. cardinals, in pairs, approached the coffin to offer their personal tributes. Following the cardinals’ private respects, the basilica opened its doors at 11 a.m. local time (5 a.m. ET) to allow public viewing, and thousands of mourners who had been waiting outside in St. Peter’s Square began to file past the body.

In line with Pope Francis’s well-known preference for simplicity,his body is displayed in an open wooden coffin,a departure from the traditional practice of using three coffins made of cypress,lead,and oak.This decision reflects the pope’s emphasis on humility and austerity throughout his tenure.

The procession began at the Casa Santa Marta residence, where Pope Francis lived during his papacy. The coffin was carried through Piazza Santa Marta and the Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani, passing through the Arch of the Bells before reaching St. peter’s Square and the basilica’s central door. The Vatican previously announced that Pope Francis died at Casa Santa Marta on Easter Monday due to complications from a stroke and heart failure.Before the procession began, Camerlengo Farrell conducted a brief service in the chapel of Casa santa Marta, including a short antiphon, or chant, of hope. “Let us thank the Lord for countless gifts that he bestowed on the Christian people through His servant Pope francis,” Farrell said during the service. “Let us ask him in his mercy and kindness to grant the late pope an eternal home in the kingdom of heaven and to comfort with celestial hope, the papal family, the church in Rome, and the faithful throughout the world.”

Later on Wednesday,Camerlengo Farrell also presided over the Liturgy of the Word inside St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing attendees to pay their respects to the late pope. During the service,Farrell dispensed Holy Water over the Francis’ body. The service included a reading from John’s Gospel, in which Jesus says to God: “I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me might potentially be in them, and I in them.” The congregation recited several religious verses, including psalm 22, “The Lord is my Shepherd,” as well as customary Catholic prayers for the dead, and concluded with the Salve Regina, a Marian prayer.

The basilica will remain open for public viewing until midnight on Wednesday,from 7 a.m. to midnight on Thursday, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, allowing as many people as possible to bid farewell to the pontiff.

Archyde Exclusive: Historian dr. Elena Rossi on Pope Francis’s Legacy and Funeral Arrangements

Archyde.com – As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, Archyde news brings you an exclusive interview with Dr. Elena Rossi, a leading historian specializing in Vatican history and the papacy. Dr. Rossi provides insightful commentary on the Pope’s life, death, his impact in the Vatican to the public and the meaning of the upcoming funeral.

The Simplicity of Farewell

Archyde: Dr.Rossi, thank you for joining us. The world has witnessed the transfer of Pope Francis’s body to St. Peter’s Basilica. Could you shed light on the significance of the arrangements, particularly the open wooden coffin?

dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me. The choice of an open, wooden coffin is a powerful symbol. it reflects Pope Francis’s deep commitment to humility and simplicity, values he consistently championed throughout his papacy. This is a clear departure from tradition, highlighting his desire to connect with the faithful on a more personal and relatable level even in death.

Solemn Processions and public Grief

Archyde: The details of the procession, from Casa Santa Marta to St. Peter’s Basilica, seem meticulously planned. How does it reflect the broader themes of his papacy?

Dr. Rossi: The procession routes, passing through meaningful areas like Piazza Santa Marta and Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani, mirror his desire to stay in the heart of the everyday life of the church and also the public. It’s a journey that underscores his closeness to the people, the poor, and the marginalized—a central theme of his pontificate. The choice of prayers and hymns during the service further emphasizes themes of hope and remembrance within the Catholic community across the globe.

Global Impact and World Leaders

Archyde: The Vatican has announced the attendance of leaders like president Donald Trump at the funeral. What does this illustrate about Pope Francis’s global influence?

dr. Rossi: Pope Francis was a global figure, and a deeply influential one. his ability to engage with leaders from diverse backgrounds, including heads of state, reflected his efforts to build bridges and address global challenges like climate change and social justice head-on. The presence of world leaders at his funeral is a testament to his impact on the international stage. It reflects the diverse global impact of the papacy as a whole.

The Solemn Liturgy and Public Viewing

Archyde: The Liturgy of the Word and the public viewing arrangements are designed to allow as many people as possible to pay their respects.. What is the significance of these rituals?

Dr. Rossi: these rituals are crucial for the grieving process and the continuity of the faith. The Liturgy of the Word offers moments of reflection and remembrance, bringing comfort to mourners. Public viewing,as you mentioned,provides an opportunity for the faithful to say their final farewells,and connects with the soul of the Pope. It allows people across the globe to feel a part of this monumental moment in history. The schedule will provide plenty of time for all to honor the late pontiff.

Looking Ahead: The Conclave and the Future

Archyde: With Camerlengo Kevin Joseph Farrell overseeing the arrangements, what immediate steps are being taken now as we also look towards the impending conclave?

Dr. Rossi: Camerlengo Farrell’s primary duty is to manage the transition. This includes overseeing the funeral arrangements and preparing for the conclave. It’s a time of both mourning and anticipation, as the church prepares to elect the next pope. Ensuring a smooth transition, in the light of Pope Francis, remains the key priority.

A Thought-Provoking question

Archyde: Dr.Rossi,what do you believe will be the moast enduring legacy of Pope Francis?

Dr. Rossi: He challenged the church to be more inclusive, compassionate, and relevant. His emphasis on mercy and the marginalized, and his efforts to address global issues, will likely be remembered as his most enduring legacies. His words and actions will undoubtedly continue to inspire people around the world for many years to come.

Archyde: Dr. Rossi, thank you for sharing your expertise with us.

Dr. Rossi: My pleasure.