Rome, Italy — Filipino cardinals Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle and Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, along with other prelates, paid their respects to the late Pope Francis at his tomb in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major on Sunday.
At around 3:40 p.m. Rome time (9:40 p.m. Manila time), the group visited the tomb to offer prayers, followed by a visit to the Cappella Paolina, a chapel Pope Francis often visited. They later gathered at the basilica’s High Altar for the Second Vespers or evening prayer, joined by pilgrims and tourists.
The first day of public viewing drew an estimated 20,000 pilgrims, according to Vatican News, coinciding with the final day of the Jubilee of Teenagers. Many visitors, including GMA Integrated News anchor Vicky Morales, queued for hours to offer brief prayers at the tomb.
Filipino pilgrims, including Gerry Uy and his wife Olivia, shared the emotional experience of witnessing the cardinals’ visit, calling it a blessing after a long wait.
Meanwhile, surrounding businesses near St. Mary Major have seen a surge in visitors, with local shops and restaurants benefiting from the influx of pilgrims.
Earlier that day, Cardinal Tagle also led a Mass for Divine Mercy Sunday at the Pontificio Collegio Filippino in Rome. In his homily, he urged the faithful to believe in and act on mercy, stressing the importance of recognizing good amidst negativity.
At the same time, the second Novemdiali for Pope Francis was being held at St. Peter’s Square, presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin.