Thousands Pay Respects as Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Vatican City

In Vatican City, thousands of Roman Catholic faithful began visiting the tomb of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. The pope was laid to rest in the simple white tomb located in St. Mary Major Basilica, a site chosen to reflect his humble spirit. From early Sunday morning, worshippers formed long queues awaiting their chance to pay their respects, many of whom had started their vigil hours before sunrise. Visitors were captivated by the simplicity of the tomb, which was illuminated warmly and adorned just with a reproduction of the late pontiff's pectoral cross. A single white rose was placed on the tomb, evoking deep emotional responses from attendees. Rosario Correale, a visitor from Italy, shared that witnessing the tomb incited 'great emotion,' noting the profound impact Pope Francis had on many lives. As part of the mourning process, the Vatican has declared a nine-day period during which the tomb will be open for public visitation. A conclave is anticipated to occur between May 5 and May 10 to elect the next pope, and the preparations for the election are underway. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, one of the favorites to succeed Francis, officiated a Mass attended by about 200,000 people, many of whom were young pilgrims present for the Jubilee of Teenagers. Attendees included youth from various countries, highlighting a sentiment shared by Cardinal Parolin, who expressed that Pope Francis would have loved to engage with them personally. The emotional gathering at St. Peter's Square not only honored the late pope but also underscored the ongoing vitality and unity of the global Catholic community amidst this transitional time. As the weeks progress, the world will watch closely how the election dynamics unfold amongst the Cardinals, especially with the backdrop of respect and nostalgia for the legacy of Pope Francis.