Many individuals chose to wait overnight to be among the first in line forthe ceremony, which is expected to be attended by global leaders.
The Argentinian pontiff, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88, worked to guide the ancient institution towards a more inclusive path during his 12-year tenure as pope.
Approximately 250,000 individuals came to pay their respects at St Peter’s Basilica as the pope’s body lay in state for three days, and a substantial crowd arrived just before dawn on Friday to bid their final farewell.
“He was more than just a pope; he represented the very essence of humanity,” said Andrea Ugalde, 39, who traveled from Los Angeles to attend Saturday’s mass.
A substantial security operation is in place, as more than 50 world leaders are slated to attend, with a no-fly zone, fighter jets on standby, and sharpshooters positioned on nearby rooftops.
“We kept vigil all night in our car with our children,” said Peruvian Gabriela Lazo, 41. “We are deeply saddened by the loss because the Latino leader of the Church holds a special place in our hearts.”
Following the funeral, a period of official mourning will begin, lasting for nine days in honor of Francis, who took the papacy after Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation in 2013.
The cardinals will then assemble for the conclave to elect a successor to lead the globe’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
