People from around the world gathered to pay their last respects to Pope Francis as his body lay in St. Peter’s Basilica. The basilica will be kept open for mourners until his funeral on Saturday.
Key Points
Thousands lined up outside St. Peter’s Basilica to see Pope Francis
Basilica will remain open for mourners until Saturday
Funeral to be held on Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square
Pros
Opportunity for people to pay their last respects to Pope Francis
Symbol of unity among mourners from different countries
Sign of respect for a highly influential leader
Cons
Long waiting times for people to view the pontiff's body