St. Peter’s Basilica reopens to faithful bidding farewell to pope

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St. Peter’s Basilica reopened its doors Thursday morning following a short closure earlier in the day, as it welcomed thousands of mourners from across the globe who came to pay their final respects to Pope Francis.

According to Vatican media sources, nearly 50,000 individuals have already visited the basilica to honor the late pontiff, whose body has been on public display in an open casket since Wednesday in anticipation of his funeral on Saturday.

Due to the overwhelming turnout, church authorities extended visiting hours beyond the original midnight closure, keeping the basilica open until 5:30 a.m. before resuming access again at 7 a.m.

The 88-year-old pope passed away on Monday at the Santa Marta residence within the Vatican following a stroke. His remains were transferred to St. Peter’s in a dignified procession the following day.

Francis, known for his progressive vision and reformist stance, led the Church through a dynamic and at times controversial 12-year papacy. He frequently faced opposition from conservative factions while advocating for social justice and the underprivileged.

Saturday’s funeral is expected to draw representatives from over 170 nations, including various heads of state and government leaders, with millions more expected to follow the ceremony via broadcast.

“A significant chapter in the Church’s legacy has ended,” Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Muller stated in an interview with la Repubblica, published Thursday.

Cardinal Muller, a prominent conservative figure among the 133 cardinals who are expected to convene next month to select the 267th pontiff, acknowledged widespread recognition of Pope Francis’ dedication to migrants and the disadvantaged.

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