By Barth Ikiebe

Over 20,000 mourners formed long, winding queues that stretched for hours at the Vatican as people flocked to pay their heartfelt respects to the late Pope Francis.

St. Peter’s Basilica opened its majestic doors to the public, allowing them to bid their final farewells to Francis, who is lying in state for the next three days, enveloped in serenity and reverence.

The central aisle of the basilica was filled with a sea of individuals, some visibly distraught, their eyes glistening with tears. In contrast, others paused for quiet prayer, offering their hearts to the pontiff as they walked past his open coffin.

Witnesses reported waiting up to five hours to enter the sacred space, followed by an additional hour standing in line within the grandeur of the basilica, a testament to the deep admiration and love felt for the pope, according to NBC News.

At present, tens of thousands are lined up in three distinct queues. Yet, mourners noted that the lines move “fairly quickly” as individuals quietly exit after paying their respects, reflecting a shared sense of purpose.

One woman poignantly shared with the news outlet that her farewell was brief but meaningful; she blew a kiss toward the open casket, a gesture filled with love and loss.

However, Vatican sources said that the wait time has now ballooned to eight hours, creating concerns that St. Peter’s might close at midnight, perhaps leaving those at the end of the line without a chance to honour the pope one last time.

The basilica will reopen at 7 am tomorrow, welcoming mourners until at least midnight, hoping to allow as many individuals as possible to pay their respects. The final day for lying in state will conclude at 7 pm, preparing the sacred space for Francis’ funeral mass on Saturday.

In the days ahead, tens of thousands are expected to visit the basilica for this sombre occasion, with at least 200,000 anticipated to gather for the outdoor funeral service on Saturday, marking a moment of collective remembrance and mourning for a beloved figure.

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