VATICAN CITY — The Vatican has officially announced that it will observe the traditional nine days of mourning, known as novemdiales, following the death of Pope Francis. The period of mourning will begin on Saturday, coinciding with the day of the pontiff’s funeral, and continue until Sunday, May 4.
Daily commemorative events are set to take place at St. Peter’s Basilica throughout the mourning period, where thousands of mourners have already gathered to pay their respects as Pope Francis lies in state.
The Vatican is reportedly considering extending public viewing hours due to the overwhelming number of pilgrims arriving to honor the late pontiff.