As twilight descends over Vatican City following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, St Peter’s Square buzzes with mourners from around the globe. The atmosphere is both solemn and anticipatory as a diverse crowd, consisting of Catholics, tourists, and media representatives, gather to honour a leader who devoted his life to faith and compassion.
Multilingual conversations mingle in the air as people share in a collective moment of grief and historical significance. Linda Coorey and Bernadette Lahood, two Australian pilgrims, adapted their travel plans to pay their respects, expressing the profound impact Pope Francis had on their community. Coorey reflects on the Pope’s affection for ordinary people, rather than just dignitaries, while Lahood appreciates his ability to connect with various generations, particularly young Catholics.
The queue for a glimpse of the Pope’s body, which now lies in state under the dome of St Peter’s Basilica, is substantial, with waits stretching up to six hours. Echoing traditions of the past, the basilica’s great bell tolls in tribute to his legacy, as the sacred site remains open for people worldwide to pay their final respects until his funeral later tonight.
Inside the basilica, an atmosphere of reverence prevails, as mourners, many clutching rosaries, quietly move past the open casket to honour the man who led the Catholic Church for over a decade. Visitors like New Yorker Nancy Jiang describe the occasion as breathtaking, noting the transition from the hustle outside to the tranquil beauty within.
Renowned for his humility and reformative vision, Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, was the first Latin American and Jesuit to hold the papacy. His inclusive approach has resonated with many, as expressed by Brazilian Aducci Correia Kenig, who values the diverse representation he brought to the global church. The anticipation of selecting a new pope in the coming weeks is tempered by hope for continued inclusivity within the church.
The funeral is set for April 26, with global leaders, such as US President Donald Trump and Prince William, expected to attend. True to the Pope’s wishes, his burial will take place in St Mary Major Basilica, a site chosen for its humility. As the Catholic community reflects on his contributions, there is hope for renewal under the guidance of the next pope, with aspirations for a church that draws back those who have strayed.
The collective sentiment among the faithful suggests that the legacy of Pope Francis will endure, representing a beacon of mercy, dignity, and hope in the lives of many across the world.