Pope Francis's Funeral Preparations: Crowds, Cardinal Electors, and Comparisons to John Paul II

Public Mourning and Vatican City

• 🕊️ Over 50,000 people have paid their respects to Pope Francis as he lies in state at St. Peter's Basilica.
• ⏰ The public viewing was extended beyond midnight to accommodate the large number of mourners, with the stream of visitors being constant.
• 💖 This outpouring of people is seen as a reflection of the special relationship between the people and the Pope, giving back love felt over the past 12 years.

Comparison to Pope John Paul II's Funeral

• 🧐 The current scale of crowds is compared to the funeral of Pope John Paul II in 2005, which also saw hundreds of thousands arrive in Rome.
• ✈️ In 2005, a significant number of mourners arrived from Eastern Europe via newly available budget airlines, surprising many.
• 🌍 While the current crowds are substantial, the biographer notes that funeral crowds in Latin America would likely be even larger, given Pope Francis's Argentinian heritage.

Cardinal Electors and Conclave Preparations

• 🧑‍⚖️ A few cardinal electors have reported being unwell and unable to travel to Rome for the upcoming conclave.
• 🗳️ The number of cardinal electors invited is 135, with those over 80 having the option to attend.
• ✅ Cardinal electors are holding daily meetings, and decisions can proceed if more than two-thirds are present, which has been the case so far.
• 🗓️ The final number of cardinal electors present is not expected to be known until the week leading up to the funeral.

Coverage of Funeral Services

• 📺 CBS News will provide extensive coverage of Pope Francis's funeral on Saturday.
• 📺 An interview with Pope Francis by Norah O'Donnell will stream at 3:00 a.m. Eastern.
• 📺 A special report on the funeral will begin at 4:00 a.m. Eastern on CBS News 24/7 and Paramount Plus.