Thousands gather at the Vatican to mourn Pope Francis

People from across the globe stood for hours just to spend a few quiet moments honoring Pope Francis as he lies in state.

(NBC)- People from across the globe stood for hours just to spend a few quiet moments honoring Pope Francis as he lies in state.

“Walking in, it’s just such a surreal place, and it’s very holy,” said Alex Lenrtz from Atlanta, Georgia. “Seeing the body and just remembering everything that he stood for is very important.”

Inside the basilica, mourners reflect on the legacy of a pope known for his humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the poor and marginalized.

“He made the church very accessible and inclusive,” said Rachel McKay from the United Kingdom. “Like a family member for us.”

As the public mourns, the Church begins its transition. Behind the scenes, 135 Catholic cardinals have begun preparations for the sacred and secretive conclave—the process to elect the next pope.

“We have to wait, to pray, and to have our meetings. And then afterwards we decide,” said Cardinal Fernando Filoni.

Those meetings will take place behind the locked doors of the Sistine Chapel, where the cardinals will deliberate over who should carry forward Pope Francis’ mission of compassion and inclusion.

“He taught us all how to be Christians and to be human,” said John McKay, also from the UK. “And we want Pope Francis II now.”