The final hours for public viewing of Pope Francis' body are nearing their end at the Vatican, with the casket soon to be sealed in preparation for the funeral rites. Devotees and mourners have until 7 PM Vatican time (10:30 PM IST) today to pay their last respects at St. Peter's Basilica, where the late Pope lies in state.

At 8 PM local time (11:30 PM IST), the solemn sealing of the casket will take place. This sacred task will be carried out by Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell, as per Vatican tradition. The closure will mark the conclusion of the public’s physical connection to the beloved Pontiff, whose legacy has touched millions around the globe.

Present at this intimate ceremony will be several high-ranking Church dignitaries, including Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Roger Mahony, Cardinal Domenico Mamberti, Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, and other elected Vatican officials.

The Pope’s wooden casket will be reinforced with a zinc lining, and a symbolic cross along with an inscribed plaque bearing his name and life dates will be affixed to the lid. This final act symbolizes the Church’s enduring reverence and its deep gratitude for Pope Francis' years of service and spiritual guidance.

As the time draws near, throngs of faithful from all corners of the world continue to gather for one last glimpse of the pontiff. The funeral ceremony is scheduled to begin tomorrow at 1:30 PM IST at the Vatican, drawing the curtain on an era marked by humility, compassion, and reform. Until then, Pope Francis will remain in repose at St. Peter's Basilica, offering a final moment of closeness for the Church and its followers.