Tens of Thousands Mourn Pope Francis as Vatican Prepares for Funeral and Succession
- Victor Nwoko
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
Public viewing for Pope Francis entered its second day on Thursday, drawing more than 50,000 mourners to St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their respects to the late pontiff, known globally for championing humility, empathy, and inclusion throughout his 12-year papacy. The Vatican, initially planning to close the basilica overnight, extended viewing hours until 5:30 a.m. to accommodate the massive crowds lining up to see the open casket of the pope who led the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics through a transformative era.
Pope Francis, remembered for maintaining stability during a decade marked by global crises including the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and technological upheaval, is being honored as both a spiritual leader and a moral compass. While many progressive Catholics had hoped for broader reforms, especially regarding the priesthood and church teachings on sexuality, Francis is widely credited for keeping the Church united amid societal turbulence.
As preparations for Saturday’s funeral in St. Peter’s Square progress, attention is turning to the impending conclave, scheduled for next month. Over 100 cardinal electors will gather to vote on a new pope. Candidates could range from progressives ready to continue Francis’ reforms to conservatives aiming to restore traditional doctrines. During the conclave, the electors will stay at the Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guesthouse where Francis lived. Voting will take place in the Sistine Chapel and will continue until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority. If no consensus is reached after three days, the cardinals will pause for a day of prayer and reflection before resuming.
Amid preparations, controversy has emerged surrounding Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, a former high-ranking Vatican official convicted of embezzlement and sentenced to more than five years in prison. Becciu, who maintains his innocence and is appealing the conviction, insists he retains the right to vote in the conclave. Despite being listed as a non-voting member by the Vatican, Becciu claims no formal act excluded him and that his rights as a cardinal remain intact. He expressed hope that in death, Pope Francis now understands the truth of the case against him.
Details have also emerged about the pope's final moments. Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who had treated Francis during a recent five-week hospital stay, was called to his Vatican residence early Monday morning. He arrived within 20 minutes but quickly realized the pontiff was unresponsive and in a coma. Respecting Francis’ wish to die at home, Alfieri and the pope’s longtime assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti, remained by his side. Francis passed away shortly afterward. Cardinal Pietro Parolin led a prayer with those present, reciting the rosary in a final moment of reverence.
Pope Francis will be buried not in St. Peter’s Basilica, as is customary, but at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a choice reflecting his devotion to humility and Marian devotion. The funeral will begin at 10 a.m. and launch nine days of mourning and prayers, as the Church turns its gaze toward the future and the election of a new spiritual leader.
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