Pope Francis Lying in State: Security, Mourners, and Selfies

Public Viewing and Security Measures

• 📌 The Vatican has kept the doors to St. Peter's Basilica open all night, with only a brief one-hour closure, to accommodate the large number of mourners.
• 🚶 Security guards are actively managing the long lines, ensuring a steady flow of approximately 50 people per minute passing the casket.
• 📸 Security is cracking down on individuals attempting to take selfies with Pope Francis's coffin, with ushers directing people to move along.

Mourner Reactions and Observations

• 💔 Some observers find the act of taking photos with the coffin disrespectful to the late pontiff.
• ⛪ Despite the controversy, even nuns have been observed taking photos of Pope Francis in his coffin.
• 🤕 A noticeable bruise on the left side of the Pope's face is visible, which experts attribute to normal post-mortem bruising during the dressing process.

Reflections and Hopes for Succession

• 🇺🇸 American students studying in Italy view the opportunity to see Pope Francis as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, highlighting his humanity and caring nature.
• 🪪 After viewing the casket, mourners receive prayer cards featuring the Pope's portrait.
• 🤝 A visitor from Chicago expressed a message for the College of Cardinals, urging them to choose a successor who continues Pope Francis's work and embodies his humility, humanity, and care for the poor.