Pope Francis Lies in State: Crowds Gather at St. Peter's Square

Public Farewell to Pope Francis

• 🕊️ Pope Francis is lying in state inside St. Peter's Basilica, with crowds rushing to St. Peter's Square to pay their final respects before the midnight closing deadline.
• 🚶‍♀️ The line to enter St. Peter's Basilica stretched out of Vatican City into Rome, with mourners waiting hours for a few seconds to say goodbye.
• 🌍 People from around the world, including New Jersey and Peru, gathered to witness this historic event and pay tribute.

Emotional Tributes and Security Measures

• 💔 Mourners shared their emotional experiences, with one describing the Pope's expression as "empty" and another feeling a "rough" and "oppressive" heart.
• 🚨 Italy has implemented a comprehensive security plan, including drones, to patrol the Vatican neighborhood and ensure safety during the public viewing.

Procession and Funeral Preparations

• 🎶 Simple wooden coffin of Pope Francis was carried by polebearers, escorted by the Papal Swiss Guard and Cardinals, in a methodical march from his residence to the basilica.
• 🗓️ The date for the conclave to elect a new Pope will not be discussed until after Pope Francis's funeral.
• 📺 ABC will provide special coverage of the funeral early Saturday morning.