Pope Francis' Funeral Preparations Underway as Tens of Thousands Pay Their Respects

The Vatican is preparing for the funeral of Pope Francis, with Cardinal Kevin Farrell presiding over the Rite of Sealing of the Coffin. This significant liturgical event marks the climax of the mourning period, ending the public viewing in St. Peter’s Basilica which has seen an extraordinary turnout. Tens of thousands have paid their respects as over 50,000 people reportedly filed past the Altar of the Confession within just 24 hours of the viewing opening on Wednesday. This high turnout accentuates the Pope's impact on global spiritual life. The Basilica operated extended hours to accommodate the influx of mourners, demonstrating the profound reverence held for Pope Francis. Following the Rite, the funeral Mass will occur on April 26 in St. Peter’s Square, commencing the Novemdiales tradition, which involves nine days of Masses dedicated to the Pope's soul. The Mass schedule reflects both the gravity of the occasion and the ongoing commitment of the Church to honor the legacy of its leaders. The attentive planning and decorum exhibited during this time highlight the Vatican’s organizational structure and respect for ritual. Sources for this article include Vatican News and various official Church communications, reiterating the high level of engagement from Church officials. The report's detailed information emphasizes the respectful approach towards the deceased Pope, indicating a deep sense of community mourning within the Church and beyond.