VATICAN CITY — The faithful gathered in droves on Sunday to pay their respects at the tomb of Pope Francis, located within St. Mary Major Basilica. This solemn occasion followed a public farewell attended by world leaders and hundreds of thousands the previous day. Mourners placed a single white rose on the simple yet poignant tomb, bearing the inscription “Franciscus,” the pope’s name in Latin, as a warm light illuminated the space.
Many of the visitors were visibly moved as they approached the late pontiff’s resting place. Rosario Correale, who traveled from Salerno, Italy, expressed profound emotion at being in such a significant location. “All the people are truly touched. He has left a lasting mark on us,” he said, as attendees paused, some crossing themselves or taking photos on their smartphones. Ushers encouraged continuous movement to manage the lengthy lines forming outside the basilica, as throngs of people came to pay their tributes.
For those like Elias Caravalhal, who resides in Rome, this visit was deeply personal. Unable to attend the lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica after the pope’s passing on Easter Monday at age 88, he seized the opportunity to thank Francis for his impactful leadership. “He was an inspiration and a guide,” Caravalhal reflected on his visit to the tomb.
The tomb was opened on the second day of the official nine-day mourning period for Francis, which will precede a conclave for the election of his successor. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, officiated a special Mass in St. Peter’s Square that drew an estimated 200,000 attendees, many of whom were young people visiting for a canonization event that was rescheduled due to the pope’s death.
In his homily, Cardinal Parolin acknowledged the collective grief felt by many. “We are experiencing loss and sadness, akin to the apostles grieving for Jesus,” he stated, emphasizing the profound impact of Francis’ passing on the Catholic community. The Mass saw numerous youths in attendance, including groups in scouting uniforms who also honored the pope at his funeral.
As discussions begin among the cardinals regarding the conclave’s timing—anticipated between May 5 and May 10—there is a palpable sense of urgency within the Church. Cardinals in Rome for the funeral have started to convene regularly this week to shape the future of the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church.
The choice of burial site for Pope Francis at St. Mary Major Basilica holds personal significance. The archbishop in charge of the basilica noted that Francis opted for this location near a revered icon of the Madonna, reflective of his humble and essential life philosophy. “It was truly beautiful to see the pope’s resting place,” said Amaya Morris, a tourist visiting from Los Angeles. “I found it remarkable that he chose this basilica among all the options available.”
As the world continues to mourn Pope Francis, the lines of admirers seeking solace and closure reflect the indelible influence he had over his flock, a testament to his legacy that will resonate for generations to come.