A Glimpse of Peace Amidst Emotional Farewell
Leobardo Guevara, a 26-year-old Mexican, waited over four hours to bid farewell to Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica. Though only a few seconds with the late spiritual leader, it left him with a “sense of peace.” On this first day of the three-day capilla ardiente (laying in repose), tens of thousands of believers and tourists patiently waited under a warm spring afternoon before they could say their final goodbyes to their leader.
“It feels peaceful. He was such a humble person, may God have him in His glory,” Guevara expressed emotionally, wearing a Mexican flag over his black workout clothes.
A Tide of Faithful Filling the World’s Largest Church
Inside, a low murmur echoed through the grand nave, punctuated by children’s sobs. A sea of believers traversed the imposing central nave before reaching Pope Francis’ open casket, adorned with a red chasuble, white mitre, and black shoes.
Many quickly sanctified themselves before the mortal remains of the first Latin American pope, who lay in a simple casket guarded by four Swiss Guards beneath the monumental Baroque baldachin by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
“It was very emotional; I even cried. I considered him like a grandfather. I wrote letters and received responses,” shared Thomas Natcher, an American proud to be among the first 100 people to enter the capilla ardiente.
Sister Caterina also left emotionally moved despite the heavy crowd, after paying her respects to the deceased Jesuit Argentine. “The profound silence brought me closer to him, though I couldn’t see him much due to the crowd. Yet, I felt that we have Pope Francis in heaven praying for us, that we are not alone,” she assured.
“Historical Moment”
Vast lines of mourners surrounded St. Peter’s Square throughout the day. Workers began setting up structures in preparation for Saturday’s funeral, attended by world leaders.
Though the capilla ardiente was set to close at midnight on this first day of three, the Vatican stated they are considering extending it further into the night due to public enthusiasm.
Devoted Pilgrimage
Federico Rueda, a 46-year-old Argentine tourist, is among the thousands who embark on a long journey to pay respects to his countryman rather than visiting other iconic Roman sites during his brief stay.
“One can have sports idols, but leaders like Pope Francis transcend national boundaries. They have become global icons and leaders, so it’s worth dedicating some time to bid them farewell,” Rueda added, wearing an Argentina national team jersey.
A Historic Opportunity
Daniela Richino, a 60-year-old Italian-Uruguayan resident of Rome, prepared her multicolored umbrella to shield from the sun like many others in St. Peter’s Square.
“I saw this as a unique opportunity to witness such a massive display of devotion, something I may never experience again,” she expressed, eager to pray for a loved one amidst this historic moment.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Pope Francis? Jorge Mario Bergoglio, an Argentine Jesuit, served as the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church from 2013 until his death in 2022.
- Why is his death significant? As the first Latin American pope and a beloved figure worldwide, his passing draws an outpouring of grief and tribute from millions of Catholics and admirers.
- What is the capilla ardiente? A traditional Catholic practice where the deceased pope lies in repose for three days, allowing the public to pay their respects before the funeral.
- How is the public reacting? People from around the world have lined up for hours to view Pope Francis’ casket, expressing their emotions and sharing personal stories of connection with the late pope.
- What is the significance of Pope Francis’ legacy? His progressive views, humility, and dedication to social justice have left a lasting impact on the Catholic Church and global communities.
