Pope Francis' Viewing Attracts 250K Mourners; Attendance Falls Short of St. John Paul II's Funeral

VATICAN CITY — The sealing of the coffin marked the conclusion of the three-day period during which people could publicly pay their respects to Pope Francis in Rome.

The Vatican reports that approximately 250,000 individuals passed through St. Peter’s Basilica, with several hundred others being denied entry once the doors shut on Friday.

Although the crowd attending to honor Pope Francis remains steady, the funeral for St. John Paul II attracted more attendees.

“About a million and a half individuals went through St. Peter’s Basilica,” noted Francis X. Rocca, a Vatican analyst. “During the initial 24-hour period, one million people walked through here as opposed to only around 50,000 at this point.”

Some reportedly waited in line for 13 hours to view Pope John Paul II’s body and pray. Wait times Wednesday through Friday for Pope Francis were anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours.

John Paul enjoyed a notably dedicated fan base in his home country of Poland, just a short bus trip away," explained Rocca. "Additionally, I believe that devout conservative Catholics, who admire John Paul greatly, may be more inclined to go on pilgrimages.

Individuals in today’s digitized era tend to use their smartphones for transportation logistics when heading to various events.

Rocca stated, “We possess a media culture and one that isn’t as unified.”

WGN Comprehensive Look: Honoring Pope Francis

Rocca indicates that fewer individuals are rallying together for the causes supported by Pope Francis.

"Supporting migrants and environmental causes isn’t gaining political traction, even in his home country of Argentina, the United States, and Europe. The resurgence of right-wing populism is evident," he stated.

Additional Information: How to view Pope Francis' funeral and anticipate what will happen

This might also drive the church more towards the right, along with the cardinals heading into the conclave to elect a new pontiff.

"There could be a feeling that this vote may not represent continuity," Rocca stated.

The Cardinals have maintained a discreet silence as they hurriedly move through St. Peter’s Square for their meetings. On Saturday, their attention will be firmly fixed on Pope Francis' funeral.

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