Thousands more queue to see Pope Francis on second day of lying in state

Approximately 61,000 individuals paid their respects to the pontiff by visiting his coffin during the initial 26 hours at St Peter’s Basilica, as per the Vatican.

In Vatican City, tens of thousands of people queued up to have one last look at Pope Francis as he lay in state for a second consecutive day, with Italian authorities increasing security measures ahead of his upcoming weekend funeral. The 88-year-old Francis passed away on Monday morning at the Vatican’s Santa Marta guesthouse, having recently been discharged from the hospital after a five-week battle with double pneumonia.

Since Wednesday morning, approximately 61,000 individuals have paid their respects by viewing the late Catholic leader’s coffin at St Peter’s Basilica. Due to the high demand, visiting hours were extended until early Thursday morning. Visitors were swiftly ushered past the casket, with smartphone use prohibited inside the basilica.

Mourners expressed their profound sorrow at the loss of Pope Francis, with many describing him as a beloved and exceptional figure. The head of the pontiff’s medical team revealed that Francis passed away swiftly from an unexpected stroke, without suffering prolonged agony.

Preparations for the funeral are underway, with the coffin set to be sealed on Friday evening in a ceremony overseen by Cardinal Kevin Farrell. Various delegations, including world leaders and dignitaries, are expected to attend the funeral on Saturday at St. Peter’s Square.

Following the funeral, the pontiff’s coffin will be taken to the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in Rome. The selection process for the next pope will commence after the funeral, with cardinals meeting daily to discuss the future leadership of the Catholic Church.