St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City transformed into a solemn sanctuary on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, as the open coffin of Pope Francis was placed before the Altar of the Confession for a three-day lying-in-state. Thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries from across the globe have begun arriving to pay their final respects to the late pontiff, whose legacy as a reformer, advocate for the poor, and humble servant of the Church leaves a lasting global impact.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on Monday at the age of 88 following complications from a stroke. His death marks the end of a 12-year papacy characterized by deep compassion, progressive stances on global issues, and a commitment to inclusivity and peace.
The Vatican bells rang mournfully as Francis’ wooden coffin, escorted by cardinals and Swiss Guards in traditional attire, was moved from his Santa Marta residence to St Peter’s Basilica. The late pontiff had chosen to reside in the modest guesthouse throughout his papacy rather than the papal apartments, a testament to his humility.
Thousands of mourners filled St Peter’s Square, with many visibly emotional. Some applauded as the coffin passed, while others prayed silently. “He was more than a pope. He was like a grandfather to all of us,” said Anna Montoya, a 33-year-old pilgrim from Mexico.
The coffin now rests before the basilica’s Altar of the Confession, beneath the majestic bronze baldacchino by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. In keeping with Francis’ humility, it lies on a simple bier rather than the more ornate platforms used for his predecessors.
Italy has declared five days of national mourning, with heightened security around the Vatican. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi confirmed that over 150 foreign delegations are expected, including U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Britain’s Prince William, who will represent King Charles III.
Security personnel have erected barriers to manage the growing crowds, while emergency teams distribute water amid rising temperatures. Authorities anticipate hundreds of thousands of attendees before Saturday’s funeral.
From clergy to ordinary citizens, tributes to Francis continue to pour in. “He will be sorely missed,” said Pasquale Apolito, a schoolteacher from Rome. “His leadership was marked by listening and love.”
Sister Maria Guadalupe Hernandez Olivo, a Mexican nun, tearfully recalled the moment she heard of his passing. “It was heartbreaking, but I believe he’s in a better place,” she said.
Francis’s death came weeks after a hospital stay for pneumonia. Despite medical advice to rest, he made public appearances through Easter, maintaining his tradition of greeting pilgrims from the popemobile. He reportedly suffered a stroke on Easter Monday and passed away the next morning.
The death of Pope Francis sets in motion the traditional process of electing a new pontiff. The College of Cardinals, limited to those under 80 years old, has been summoned to Rome to prepare for the conclave. This historic gathering, expected within 15 to 20 days, will determine the spiritual leader of over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, serving as camerlengo, has assumed interim leadership of the Vatican and is overseeing the funeral arrangements and administrative operations.
Following his funeral on Saturday, Pope Francis’s remains will be taken to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore—his favorite church in Rome—for interment. In line with his wishes, his tomb will be marked simply with the name “Franciscus.”
Francis’s papacy was widely regarded as transformative. He was the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to take the name “Francis” after St Francis of Assisi, symbolizing his dedication to humility and service.
Throughout his tenure, Francis championed issues such as climate change, poverty, refugees, and interfaith dialogue. His death leaves a profound void in global Catholic leadership, but his message of compassion, unity, and love will continue to resonate across the world.