A Quiet Farewell: St Peter’s Square Mourns the Death of Pope Francis

A deep silence fell over St Peter’s Square on Monday as Catholics and tourists gathered to mourn Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88.

Just hours after the Vatican made the announcement, groups of priests, nuns, and pilgrims could be seen praying quietly, many clutching rosaries. Even tourists walked the square in silence, visibly moved by the news.

“He Spoke for the Weak”

“He was the voice of the smallest, the weakest. And up until yesterday, he was asking for peace in the world,” said Riccardo Vielma, a 31-year-old seminarian from Venezuela.

The sadness was even more profound because Pope Francis had appeared in public the day before, waving to the crowd during Easter Sunday Mass. His appearance had lifted spirits.

“We’re all stunned,” said Royben Noris, also from Venezuela. “Yesterday he was here. There was so much joy.”

Now, the joy had turned into grief. Many visitors crossed themselves, wiped away tears, or stood in silent reflection.

A Pope for the People

In one corner, a group of Franciscan friars in brown robes leaned against the railing, gazing at the Basilica. Nearby, a small group of young people stood in a circle, praying aloud.

Photographers and media crews started setting up at the back of the square, preparing for the coming days of mourning and transition.

Among the visitors was Naoimh Kelly, a 44-year-old tourist from Ireland, who had come with her son.

“He was always about the people. A real humanitarian,” she said. “In Ireland, the Church has had a bad name. But he changed how people thought. It’s a shame.”

Loved by All

Nunzia, a 63-year-old woman from Italy, said she often came to St Peter’s to listen to the pope’s Sunday prayers.

“People loved him. Catholics and non-Catholics alike,” she said. “Mamma mia, it really hit me. The only thing I could do was come here.”

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, became pope in March 2013. His time in office was marked by compassion, simplicity, and strong calls for peace and justice.

He had recently spent 38 days in hospital being treated for pneumonia and was discharged on March 23, just days before his final Easter Mass.