Thousands gather in St. Peter's Square to pray rosary after Pope Francis's death
Thousands gather in St. Peter’s Square to honor Pope Francis with a candlelit Rosary vigil, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a historic transition for the Catholic Church.
Thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square to pray the Rosary following the death of Pope Francis. The ceremony, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, began at 7:30 PM and was marked by solemnity and reflection. The cardinal recalled the Pope's frequent request: "Do not forget to pray for me," setting the tone for the evening's prayer. The faithful, holding rosaries and candles, joined in unison to honor the late pontiff's memory. The atmosphere was one of deep mourning and spiritual unity.
Cardinal Re emphasized the Christian hope in resurrection, stating, "We know that death is not a door that closes, but the entrance into the heavenly Jerusalem." He invited attendees to thank the Lord for the gifts granted to the Church through Pope Francis's apostolic ministry. The prayer concluded with the Salve Regina, as the crowd reflected on the Pope's legacy. The event highlighted the global impact of Pope Francis's leadership and the collective grief of the Catholic community. The gathering served as a testament to the Pope's influence and the unity of the Church in mourning.
The vigil took place in front of the image of Mary Mater Ecclesiae, adorned with white and pink flowers. Pilgrims from around the world attended, many holding copies of the special edition of L’Osservatore Romano dedicated to the Pope's passing. The evening was warm and calm, with a solemn silence broken only by the recitation of the Rosary and the final hymn. The faithful's devotion was evident as they paid their respects to the late pontiff. The event underscored the deep connection between Pope Francis and the global Catholic community.
Earlier that day, the Vatican held the first General Congregation of the College of Cardinals, with about sixty cardinals participating. They pledged to uphold canonical order and began planning the immediate steps following the Pope's death, including the funeral, burial, and the upcoming conclave to elect his successor. The funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter's Square, also to be presided over by Cardinal Re. The Pope's body will lie in state in the Basilica of St. Peter, following a private vigil at Casa Santa Marta. These arrangements reflect the Church's traditions and the significance of the papal transition.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first Latin American pope and the 266th successor of St. Peter. He assumed the papacy in March 2013 and was known for his pastoral style, simplicity, and focus on the marginalized. His leadership transformed the Church's image in the 21st century, emphasizing a "Church in exit" committed to social and spiritual peripheries. Despite internal divisions within the Vatican, he maintained strong leadership and convened significant synods on family, youth, and the Amazon. His death marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church.
The Rosary vigil in St. Peter's Square was a profound expression of collective mourning and spiritual solidarity. It highlighted the deep affection and respect the faithful held for Pope Francis. As the Church prepares for the upcoming conclave, the global Catholic community reflects on his enduring legacy. The Pope's commitment to humility, social justice, and interfaith dialogue leaves a lasting impact. The gathering in the square serves as a poignant reminder of the unity and faith that Pope Francis inspired throughout his papacy.