Francis did away with that sort of viewing. Instead, a procession brought his coffin on Wednesday directly to St. Peter’s Basilica, where a public viewing is taking place. Francis’ body, dressed in papal vestments, his head covered with a white bishop’s miter, is lying in state to allow tens of thousands of mourners to bid farewell.

"Pope Francis was a visionary leader of the Catholic Church who called on all of us to see the humanity in everyone," U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler posted on X. "I join Catholics across New York and around the world in mourning the loss of our shepherd who led with grace, humility, and conviction."