Pilgrims Flock as Pope Francis Lies in State at St. Peter’s Basilica
Oh, fantastic—another solemn spectacle that nobody asked for but everyone’s already lining up for. Pope Francis, the world’s most watched pontiff, lies in state in an open casket beneath Michelangelo’s towering dome at St. Peter’s Basilica, and apparently nobody’s willing to miss the fun. After the Vatican announced his passing earlier this week, thousands of devout Catholics—and a few curious tourists—have been queuing for hours (some say days) outside the colonnade, clutching rosaries, framed photos, and the hope of a miracle.
By daybreak, the crowd snaked around Bernini’s columns, stretching well into St. Peter’s Square. Patrons shuffle forward in near-silent procession, craning for a glimpse of the pontiff’s serene visage, swaddled in the familiar white cassock. Vatican security detailed by the Swiss Guard keeps order, while volunteers hand out thin blankets and water bottles—because nothing says “divine encounter” like a cramped standstill in chilly November air. As reported by People Magazine and Vatican News, the casket remains open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, giving everyone plenty of airtime to whisper prayers, snap selfies or pretend they knew him personally.
If you’re wondering about the décor, it’s predictably grand: a raised dais flanked by gold-trimmed candlesticks, official church banners and that massive crucifix standing guard. The basilica’s soaring pillars echo with soft Gregorian chants piped through hidden speakers—just enough atmosphere to make the devout tear up and the rest of us wonder if we should’ve grabbed earplugs. I told you so: humans will queue for anything labeled “final journey.” Reuters notes the line peaked at an estimated three miles long yesterday, complete with rolling medical tents and mobile confessionals strategically placed for maximum spiritual efficiency.
Overheard snippets include “He taught me kindness” and “He healed my family,” validating countless tributes scrawled in notebooks left at the foot of the bier. Meanwhile, Vatican officials confirm the state vigil will continue until the funeral Mass on Monday, followed by a burial in the crypt below St. Peter’s Basilica. Expect even more pilgrimage-grade crowding once word spreads that his beloved pet cat, Toro, has been given honorary Swiss Guard status—or not. I’m as surprised as you are.
So, what’s next? Will we see a papal hologram? A candlelit TikTok vigil? Stay tuned, because if history’s taught us anything, it’s that when you mix faith, fanfare and an open casket, the spectacle never ends. And that, dear reader, is why we can’t have nice things. Did anyone expect a different outcome? No? Thought so.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Vatican News, Reuters
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
