Pope Francis dies at 88, sparking global reflections
- Mourners began filing into St. Peter's Basilica on Wednesday to honor Pope Francis as his public viewing commenced.
- His death initiated plans for a conclave among cardinals, leading to the selection of his successor.
- The pontiff's focus on social issues and inclusion fostered both admiration and critique, marking a significant chapter in the Catholic Church's history.
In Vatican City, thousands of mourners gathered on Wednesday to pay their final respects to Pope Francis as he lay in state in St. Peter's Basilica. This event marked the beginning of three days of public viewing ahead of his funeral, scheduled for Saturday. The pontiff, who died on Monday at the age of 88, had a 12-year papacy that was noted for its focus on inclusivity and social justice, while also facing criticism from more conservative factions within the Church. The following days will see cardinals privately preparing for the funeral and planning the conclave to elect his successor, an important time for the 1.4 billion members of the Catholic Church. South Korean Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik predicted that this transitional conclave would be relatively short, but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the next pope's identity. Mourners, including clergy and laypeople, expressed their grief over the loss of a leader who had endeavored to make the Church more accessible and caring towards the poor, reflecting on his legacy and the future direction of the Church that he so deeply influenced. In a poignant moment, a nun was photographed in tears, stating, 'He was everything to me,' highlighting the profound emotional impact of his death.