Pope Francis Lies in State at St. Peter’s Basilica

Pope Francis Lying in State: A Nation Mourns

VATICAN CITY — The world is in mourning as Pope Francis lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica. His body will remain there for three days, leading up to his funeral on Saturday. The funeral is expected to draw world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump.

Earlier Wednesday, a solemn procession transferred the Pope’s body to the basilica. Camerlengo Kevin Joseph Farrell, the cardinal responsible for the funeral arrangements and the upcoming conclave, led a service following the procession.

Francis’ coffin rests at the Altar of the Confessio, a revered location directly in front of the main altar and above the tomb of St. Peter, the first pope.

Cardinals paid their respects in pairs before the basilica opened its doors to the public at 11 a.m. local time (5 a.m. ET). Thousands of mourners have gathered in St. Peter’s Square, eagerly awaiting the prospect to pay their respects.

Did You Know? Pope Francis chose to simplify the papal funeral rites, opting for a simple wooden coffin rather of the conventional three coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak.

In a move reflecting his papacy’s focus on simplicity, Francis’ body is displayed in an open wooden coffin.

The procession began at the Casa Santa Marta residence, where Pope Francis lived during his papacy. francis passed away at Casa Santa Marta on Easter Monday at the age of 88 due to a stroke and heart failure, according to the Vatican.

The coffin’s journey took it through Piazza Santa Marta and the Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani, passing through the Arch of the Bells before entering St. Peter’s Basilica through the central door.

Bells tolled as the coffin entered the basilica at 9:30 a.m. local time (3:30 a.m. ET) Wednesday. Mourners in the piazza responded with applause, a testament to the Pope’s widespread popularity.

Prior to the procession, Camerlengo Farrell conducted a brief service in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta, featuring a short antiphon, or chant, of hope.

“Let us thank the Lord for countless gifts that he bestowed on the Christian people through His servant Pope Francis,” the Camerlengo prayed. “Let us ask him in his mercy and kindness to grant the late pope an eternal home in the kingdom of heaven and to comfort with celestial hope, the papal family, the church in Rome and the faithful throughout the world.”

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Image: The procession carrying Pope Francis’ coffin. Alt tag: Pope Francis Procession.

Image: People gather in St. Peter’s Square. Alt tag: Mourners in St. Peter’s Square.

Expert Tip: for those planning to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, be prepared for long wait times and security checks. Dress modestly and bring water.

FAQ About Papal Funerals

Where is Pope Francis lying in state?

Pope Francis is lying in state in St. Peter’s Basilica.

When is pope Francis’ funeral?

Pope Francis’ funeral is scheduled for Saturday.

Who is expected to attend the funeral?

World leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, are expected to attend the funeral.

Where did Pope Francis pass away?

Pope Francis passed away at Casa Santa Marta, his residence during his papacy.

Quick Fact: The Camerlengo is a high-ranking official in the Catholic Church who takes on specific responsibilities during the period between a pope’s death and the election of a new pope.

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Pope Francis Lying in state: Insights from Religious Scholar Dr. Eleanor Vance

The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis. To understand the significance of the events unfolding in vatican City, we spoke with Dr. Eleanor Vance,a renowned scholar of religious history and papal traditions.

Time.news Editor: Dr.vance,thank you for joining us. Pope Francis is currently lying in state. Can you explain the importance of this tradition?

Dr. Eleanor Vance: certainly. Lying in state is a tradition that allows the faithful, and indeed anyone who wishes to, to pay their respects to the deceased Pope. It’s a public display of mourning and a time for reflection on his life and papacy. In this case, Pope Francis lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, a location of immense historical and spiritual significance.

Time.news Editor: The article mentions his body will remain there for three days. What happens during this period?

Dr. Eleanor Vance: During thes three days, the Basilica is open to the public, allowing mourners to file past the Pope’s coffin. Cardinals and other dignitaries also pay their respects privately. This period is carefully orchestrated with specific prayers and rituals, a time of intense spiritual reflection and mourning for the Catholic Church.

Time.news Editor: We understand that the funeral is scheduled for Saturday and that world leaders are expected, including former U.S. President Donald Trump. What does this level of attendance signify?

Dr. Eleanor Vance: The presence of world leaders underscores the global impact of Pope Francis.His influence extended far beyond the Catholic Church, affecting discussions on social justice, climate change, and international relations. Their attendance is a diplomatic recognition of his importance on the world stage.

Time.news Editor: The article highlights that Camerlengo Kevin Joseph Farrell is playing a key role.Can you elaborate on the Camerlengo’s responsibilities at this time?

Dr. Eleanor Vance: The Camerlengo holds a crucial position during the sede vacante, the period when the papal throne is vacant. He’s responsible for overseeing the funeral arrangements and administering the Vatican’s affairs until a new pope is elected. The quick fact that the Camerlengo is a high-ranking official in the Catholic Church who takes on specific responsibilities during the period between a pope’s death and the election of a new pope highlights the significance of his role during this transition within the Church.

Time.news Editor: Pope Francis chose a simple wooden coffin, a departure from tradition. What does this tell us about his papacy?

Dr. Eleanor Vance: This choice reflects Pope Francis’ well-known emphasis on simplicity and humility.Throughout his papacy,he championed the poor and marginalized,and this decision to forgo the conventional elaborate coffins is a final statement reflecting those values. This simplification of papal funeral rites speaks volumes about his focus.

time.news Editor: The procession route is also described. Why are those specific locations significant?

Dr. eleanor Vance: The route, from Casa Santa Marta where he passed away francis, through Piazza Santa Marta and the Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani, ending at St. Peter’s basilica, is symbolic. It’s a journey from his residence, representing his everyday life, to the heart of the Catholic Church, his final resting place among his predecessors. it allows those gathered to be part of the mourning process as the coffin makes its way through the city.

Time.news Editor: For those planning to travel to Vatican City to pay their respects, what advice would you offer?

Dr. Eleanor Vance: The Expert Tip included in the article is excellent. Be prepared for long wait times and rigorous security checks. Dress modestly, as required in religious sites, and stay hydrated. It’s also advisable to check the vatican’s official website for the latest details and guidelines. understand that you will be part of a large crowd of mourners all focused on remembering Pope Francis.

Time.news Editor: Dr. Vance, thank you for providing these insightful details.It helps us understand the deeper meaning behind these solemn events.

Dr. Eleanor Vance: My pleasure.It’s a privilege to shed light on this significant moment in history.