VATICAN CITY – In a deeply emotional and solemn ceremony, the body of Pope Francis was moved from his Vatican residence to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, drawing thousands of faithful who gathered to honor the late pontiff.
The 88-year-old pope passed away two days ago at the Santa Marta guesthouse after reportedly suffering a stroke. His passing marks the end of a papacy remembered for compassion, reform, and humility.
Table of Contents:
A Final Journey Through Vatican City
Pope Francis’ body, clothed in traditional papal vestments, was carried in an open casket on a wooden platform by 14 pallbearers. Clad in black suits and white gloves, they led a stately procession through the sunlit Vatican grounds.
Cardinals in red robes, priests, friars holding candles, and Swiss Guards in ceremonial attire followed in reverence, while a male choir chanted solemn psalms and Latin prayers. The bells of St. Peter’s Basilica tolled in the background, adding to the moment’s gravity.
“Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow we now accompany the mortal remains of our Pope Francis to the Vatican Basilica,” announced Cardinal Kevin Farrell, leading the ceremonial transition into the basilica.
Global Mourning and Tributes
Thousands of mourners in St. Peter’s Square erupted into prolonged applause as the pope’s body passed—an Italian tradition of respect and honor. Pilgrims, many holding rosaries and flags, expressed their grief with solemn reverence.
Also Read:President Ruto Leads Kenyans In Mourning Pope Francis
“He felt like a member of the family—someone who made the Church welcoming and inclusive,” said Rachel McKay, a pilgrim from the United Kingdom.
Pope Francis had battled fragile health for months and was hospitalized earlier this year with double pneumonia. Just days before his death, he surprised pilgrims with a brief appearance in his white popemobile.
Funeral Set for Saturday
The pope’s body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica until Friday evening, giving the public a chance to pay final respects. A grand funeral service is scheduled for Saturday and is expected to draw world leaders and dignitaries from across the globe.
Confirmed attendees include U.S. President Donald Trump, leaders from Italy, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the European Union, and the pope’s native Argentina.
Italy’s civil protection chief, Fabio Ciciliano, anticipates over 200,000 people will attend the outdoor funeral—one of the largest gatherings in recent Vatican history.
The legacy of Pope Francis—a symbol of humility and progressive values in the Catholic Church—will continue to shape global conversations on faith, compassion, and justice.
